Climate

Himalayan Range

The Himalayan mountain range, with an average height of 6000 meters, acts as a natural barrier protecting India from the cold winds of Central Asia. Without this protection, India would experience much colder winters similar to Central Asian countries at similar latitudes. The Himalayas also play a crucial role in the monsoon system by blocking the South-West monsoon winds and forcing them to release moisture over the Indian subcontinent. This dual role makes the Himalayas essential for India's climate - they keep out cold air in winter and trap monsoon moisture in summer.

Loo

The hot and dry winds that blow over North Indian plains during summer are called 'Loo'. These winds are extremely hot and can cause heat stroke or sun stroke if someone is exposed to them for long periods. They blow during the day when temperatures can reach 45-47°C in states like Rajasthan, Punjab, and Haryana. The 'Loo' is different from 'Kaal Baisakhi' which are thunderstorms in West Bengal, and from trade winds which are global wind patterns. These local hot winds are a characteristic feature of the hot weather season in northern India.

Kerala

Kerala receives the South-West monsoon first, usually in the first week of June. This is because Kerala is located on the southwestern coast of India, directly in the path of moisture-laden winds coming from the Arabian Sea. The monsoon's arrival in Kerala is marked by heavy rainfall with thunder and lightning, known as the 'burst of monsoon'. From Kerala, the monsoon progresses northwards and eastwards, reaching Mumbai by June 10th and covering the entire country by July 15th. Kerala's position makes it the gateway for monsoons entering the Indian subcontinent.

Winter season

Rabi crops are grown during the winter season (December to February) and harvested in spring (March-April). These crops include wheat, barley, peas, gram, and mustard. They benefit from the cool, dry weather of winter and the light rainfall from western disturbances. Rabi crops are different from Kharif crops which are grown during the monsoon season. The winter season provides ideal conditions for these crops - moderate temperatures, clear skies, and adequate soil moisture from previous monsoon rains. This seasonal agriculture pattern is closely linked to India's climate cycle.