Decision-making – Courses of Action for severe weather alert Statement: The Meteorology Department has forecast that a severe cyclonic storm will hit coastal Andhra Pradesh and Odisha within the next 48 hours. Courses of Action: I. The local administration should advise fishermen not to go to dangerous areas in the sea. II. The local administration should alert people in coastal areas of these two states and prepare them to shift to safer places.

Introduction / Context:
This question tests practical risk management and disaster preparedness. A credible 48-hour cyclone forecast necessitates preventive measures to minimize loss of life and property.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• A severe cyclonic storm is expected within 48 hours.
• Coastal communities, including fishermen, are at high risk.
• Local administrations are responsible for public safety and coordination.

Concept / Approach:
Effective courses of action should be timely, preventive, and proportional to the risk. They should directly protect vulnerable populations and reduce exposure to the hazard.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Global best practices (early warning, targeted advisories, evacuation readiness) show that both actions reduce mortality and chaos. There is no conflict between I and II; they are complementary.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Only I / Only II / Either I or II: Under-response; both actions are necessary.
• Neither: Ignores an imminent, forecasted threat.

Common Pitfalls:
Waiting for confirmation from landfall observations; ignoring preparation time needed for evacuation logistics and last-mile communication.

Final Answer:
Both I and II follow