ThinkRankClimate
Overview
India’s climate is dominated by the Monsoon. This chapter analyzes the scientific factors behind the monsoon's behavior, the seasonal cycles, and the regional variations in temperature and rainfall.
Learning Objectives
- Explain the thermal and dynamic theories of the Monsoon
- Analyze the role of the Jet Stream and ITCZ in Indian weather
- Describe the four distinct climatic seasons of India
- Evaluate the distribution of rainfall across the subcontinent
Key Concepts
Monsoon Mechanism
Driven by the differential heating of land and sea, the shift of the ITCZ, and upper-air jet streams.
Western Disturbances
Low-pressure systems originating in the Mediterranean that bring winter rain to northwest India, crucial for Rabi crops.
Key Terms
MonsoonEl NinoBurstLooWestern Disturbance
Examples
Mawsynram
The wettest place on Earth due to its funnel-like topographical arrangement that traps monsoon winds.
Quick Check
- What is 'El Nino's' effect on India?
- When does the 'Retreating Monsoon' occur?