Climate of Andhra Pradesh | APPSC State Specific Preparation Course - APPSC (Andhra Pradesh) PDF Download

Climate of Andhra Pradesh

Location and Capital

• Andhra Pradesh is positioned on the southeastern coast of India and ranks as the eighth largest state in the country.
• Hyderabad serves as the capital for both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, though it remains the de jure capital for Andhra Pradesh.
• The state is in the process of designating Amravati as its new capital.

Geography and Features

• Andhra Pradesh boasts a diverse topography, bordered by Telangana, Orissa, and Chhattisgarh in the north, the Bay of Bengal in the east, Tamil Nadu in the south, and Karnataka in the west.
• The state flaunts the second longest coastline in India and is traversed by two significant rivers, Godavari and Krishna.
• Renowned as the "food bowl of the south," the state is known for its cultural richness, featuring exquisite palaces, museums, and scenic beaches.

Climate Overview

• The climate of Andhra Pradesh can be categorized as tropical, characterized by three primary seasons: monsoon, summer, and winter, along with a brief spring interlude.
• Due to its proximity to rivers, seas, and hills, the state experiences relatively uniform weather conditions across different regions.
• The plateau region encounters a milder climate compared to the coastal areas and low-lying valleys.

Seasonal Details

• Summer spans from March to mid-June, witnessing temperatures soaring up to a maximum of 42 degrees Celsius.
• Variations in temperature range from 23°C to 28°C for maximum temperatures and 10°C to 12°C for minimum temperatures across different regions.
• Coastal plains endure scorching summers, with temperatures occasionally touching 42 degrees Celsius, while plateau residents relish temperate climates characterized by cool summers and chilly winters.

Seasons of Andhra Pradesh

Relief from Heat and Arrival of Monsoon

• A sense of relief is felt when pre-monsoon showers arrive in the state around mid-June. 
• However, increased humidity is a downside during this period.

Monsoon Season

• The monsoon season typically spans from July to September in Andhra Pradesh. Occasionally, heavy rainfall can extend into October, November, and December. 
• The southwest monsoon winds bring substantial rainfall, sometimes reaching a maximum of 55 inches.
• In coastal regions, rainfall is abundant, while northern and western plateau areas experience scanty rainfall.
• During October and November, heavy rainfall is attributed to the northeast monsoon winds.

Winter Season

• From October to February, the state experiences the winter season, characterized by mild and enjoyable weather. 
• Temperatures typically range above 16 degrees Celsius, offering a pleasant atmosphere. 
• This period is ideal for visiting the picturesque state.

Seasonal Overview

• Andhra Pradesh observes four distinct seasons akin to the rest of India. 
• These include summer from March to June, monsoon from July to September, winter from October to February, and spring.

Summer Season

• The summer season in Andhra Pradesh lasts from March to June, characterized by high moisture levels. 
• Coastal plains experience higher temperatures compared to other areas, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 40 degrees Celsius. 
• In some locations, temperatures can soar up to 45 degrees on sunny days.

Monsoon Season

• Tropical rains occur in Andhra Pradesh from July to September, with heavy rainfall. One-third of the total rainfall comes from North eastern monsoons. Pre-monsoon showers in mid-June provide relief from heat but increase humidity. Southwest monsoon winds are responsible for maximum rains in the state.
• Coastal regions receive heavier rainfall compared to plateau regions, with the west and north regions getting less rain. October and November see heavy showers in coastal areas.

Winter Season

• From October to February, Andhra Pradesh experiences its winter season. Due to the vast coastal belt, winters are not extremely harsh.

Spring Season

• A brief spring season occurs in March and April. During this time, new leaves sprout on dry branches, creating a colorful and vibrant atmosphere. Ugadi marks the New Year, symbolizing new beginnings and leaving the past behind.

Agro-Climatic Zones

• Andhra Pradesh is divided into 9 Agro-Climatic Zones based on climate factors like rainfall and temperature. Each zone's agricultural planning is supported by research and recommendations from a Regional Agriculture Research Station of ANGRAU located within that zone.

Agro Climatic Zones and Farming Situations

• In Andhra Pradesh, 9 agro climatic zones have been categorized into 322 distinct farming situations.
• Each farming situation possesses a unique microenvironment, requiring specific agricultural practices for optimal outcomes.

Climate Change in Andhra Pradesh

• Andhra Pradesh, like the rest of India, faces detrimental effects of climate change.
• The state, with its extensive coastline and agricultural economy, is significantly influenced by climate change.
• Factors such as variability in rainfall patterns, temperature fluctuations, rising sea levels, and cyclones particularly affect the agricultural sector and coastal regions.
• Challenges also extend to food security, habitats vulnerable to climate variations, and infrastructure prone to climate-related damages.

State Action Plan for Climate Change (SAPCC)

• The State Action Plan for Climate Change (SAPCC) in Andhra Pradesh aligns with existing state policies and national strategies.
• It incorporates ongoing programs and schemes at the state level, as well as the National Action Plan for Climate Change (NAPCC).
• SAPCC aims to address climate change impacts on agriculture, coastal areas, food security, habitats, and infrastructure.

Key Objectives of Sustainable Development Strategy

• Inclusive and sustainable development of the State to protect vulnerable sections from the adverse effects of climate change.
• Enhanced ecological sustainability.
• Establish a framework for actions that promote growth and development while addressing and adapting to climate change.
• Prioritize adaptation/mitigation options and explore financing solutions for the State.
• Develop new policies and mechanisms to drive sustainable development.

Main Guiding Principles of the Climate Change Strategy

• Alignment with the Central Government's objectives on NAPCC, inclusive growth, and long-term economic sustainability.
• Focus on actions that support growth, development, and ecological sustainability while mitigating climate change.
• Mobilization of investments and exploration of carbon finance potential.
• Engagement of people and institutions for integrated solutions through stakeholder involvement.
• Utilization of existing expertise and knowledge on climate change for informed decision-making.
• Consideration of state-specific issues and creation of an enabling environment for NAPCC implementation at the state level.

Importance of Success and Sustainability

• The success and long-term sustainability of investments are crucial for Andhra Pradesh's development. 
• The state's developmental framework is vulnerable to climate change, necessitating adaptive measures for resilience and sustainability. 
• Aligning developmental objectives with the sustainability agenda is essential to address national priorities outlined in the NAPCC.