Test: Climate- 2 - UPSC MCQ

Jammu and Kashmir is known for its extremely cold winters, especially in places like Drass, which is considered one of the coldest inhabited places on Earth. Here is a detailed explanation of why the temperature in Drass on a winter night may touch -45 degrees Celsius:
1. Climate in Drass: Drass is located in the Kargil district of Jammu and Kashmir, at an altitude of around 10,000 feet. The climate in Drass is extremely cold and harsh, with temperatures dropping significantly during the winter season.
2. Geographical Location: Drass is situated in the western Himalayas, close to the Line of Control between India and Pakistan. The region is surrounded by high mountain ranges, which contribute to the cold temperatures experienced in the area.
3. Cold Siberian Winds: During winter, Drass is affected by cold Siberian winds that blow across the region. These winds bring freezing temperatures and make the weather even colder.
Thus, on a winter night in Drass, it is possible for the temperature to touch -45 degrees Celsius due to its geographical location, high altitude, and the influence of cold Siberian winds.

Relief plays a major role in determining the climate of a place. The relief of an area also has a significant impact on the environment. High mountains are in the path of cold or hot winds, can produce precipitation, and act as barriers against cold or hot breezes. The rain shadow area receives no precipitation, but some areas receive considerable rainfall due to the mountains. Relief plays a role in influencing the climate.

Climate refers to the sum total of weather conditions and variations over a large area for a long period of time (more than thirty years) acc. to ncert textbook.

The North-east dry Monsoon winds blow over the Bay of Bengal during winter. - As they pass over the Bay of Bengal they develop moisture and bring rain to the Tamil Nadu coast. As now they are under the influence of on-shore winds, they are full of moisture. Chennai is located on the eastern coast.

Annual Precipitation over 400 cm:
To determine which of the following places have an annual precipitation over 400 cm, we need to analyze the given options.
A: Uttar Pradesh - No information is provided about the annual precipitation in Uttar Pradesh (UP).
B: West Bengal - No information is provided about the annual precipitation in West Bengal.
C: Meghalaya - Meghalaya is known for its high rainfall and receives one of the highest amounts of precipitation in India. The average annual precipitation in Meghalaya is over 400 cm, making it a suitable option.
D: Madhya Pradesh - No information is provided about the annual precipitation in Madhya Pradesh.
Based on the given information, the correct answer is option C: Meghalaya, where the annual precipitation is over 400 cm.

The loo is a hot, dry wind that blows across northern and northwestern India during summer, typically from May to June. It significantly raises temperatures and causes heatwaves.

• It is most common in regions like Punjab.
• This wind can cause severe heatwaves, leading to tough conditions.
• Understanding its impact helps in preparing for heat-related challenges.

The six major controls of climate are latitude, altitude, pressure and wind systems, distance from the sea (continentality), ocean currents, and relief features. Vegetation cover, while important for local environmental factors, is not considered a primary control of the climate.

The 'loo' are strong, gusty, hot, dry winds that blow during the day in north and northwestern India during the hot weather season. Dust storms and thunderstorms like 'Kaal Baisakhi' bring temporary relief but are separate phenomena.