Introduction to Climate
Climate refers to the long-term weather patterns of a region. India has a tropical monsoon climate characterized by distinct seasons and seasonal rainfall patterns.
Question: What is the difference between weather and climate? Answer: Weather refers to daily atmospheric conditions, while climate is the average weather pattern over 30-35 years.
Factors Affecting Climate
Major Factors
| Factor | Effect on Indian Climate |
|---|---|
| Latitude | Tropical location brings high temperatures |
| Altitude | Higher areas cooler than plains |
| Distance from sea | Coastal areas have moderate climate |
| Relief features | Mountains affect wind and rainfall patterns |
Seasons in India
Four Main Seasons
| Season | Months | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Winter | Dec-Feb | Cool, dry, clear skies |
| Summer | Mar-May | Hot, dry, high temperatures |
| Monsoon | Jun-Sep | Heavy rainfall, humid |
| Post-monsoon | Oct-Nov | Clear skies, pleasant weather |
Monsoon System
Southwest Monsoon
- Brings most of India's annual rainfall (75-80%)
- Starts from Kerala coast in early June
- Gradually covers entire country by mid-July
Northeast Monsoon
- Also called retreating monsoon
- Affects Tamil Nadu and parts of Andhra Pradesh
- Brings winter rainfall to southeast coast
Rainfall Distribution
Regional Variations
| Region | Annual Rainfall | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Very High | >200 cm | Meghalaya, Western Ghats |
| High | 100-200 cm | Eastern coast, Northeast |
| Moderate | 50-100 cm | Central India, Eastern UP |
| Low | <50 cm | Rajasthan, Gujarat |
Types of Climate in India
Köppen Classification
- Tropical Wet: Heavy rainfall, high humidity (Western Ghats)
- Tropical Dry: Low rainfall, hot temperatures (Central India)
- Subtropical: Moderate rainfall, distinct seasons (Northern plains)
- Mountain: Cold, varies with altitude (Himalayas)