Climate of Telangana | Telangana State PSC (TSPSC): Preparation Course - TSPSC (Telangana) PDF Download

Introduction to Telangana

• In 2014, Telangana attained statehood, becoming the 29th state of India. Led by K. Chandrashekhar Rao, the Telangana Movement had been advocating for a separate state since 2001, amid significant unrest in Andhra Pradesh. 
• This struggle, spanning nearly five decades, culminated in the formation of Telangana, signifying both the conclusion of a prolonged battle and the commencement of a journey towards forging a distinct identity.

Geography of Telangana

• Telangana covers an area of 114,800 square kilometers and is nourished by two major rivers, the Krishna and the Godavari. The Godavari flows in the north, while the Krishna flows in the south. Additionally, Telangana is traversed by several other smaller rivers such as the Bhima, Dindi, Manjeera, Manair, Kinnerasani, Moosi, among others. 
• Approximately 45% of Andhra Pradesh's forest area is situated within Telangana. Moreover, the state boasts significant coal reserves, with around 20% of India's coal deposits located here. The coal extracted from this region is supplied to various states in southern India.

Climate of Telangana and Temperature

Telangana experiences a semi-arid climate characterized by scorching summers and mild winters, typical of the Deccan Plateau. The average maximum temperature in summer ranges from 40°C to 43°C, while winter sees minimum temperatures between 13°C and 17°C. As the year progresses, the mercury drops rapidly, with occasional days recording temperatures below 10°C.

Rainfall

• The State of Telangana experiences rainfall primarily from two monsoons: the South-West monsoon from June to September and the North-East monsoon from October to November.
• Telangana generally receives moderate rainfall, with an average annual precipitation of around 906 mm. Approximately 80% of this rainfall is attributed to the South-West monsoon.

Humidity

• Humidity levels in Telangana vary throughout the year. During the monsoon months of July to September, humidity can reach levels as high as 80%.
• In contrast, the dry months of March, April, and May experience lower humidity, typically ranging between 25% to 30%.

Heavy Rains

• Intense rainfall events leading to heavy rains in Telangana are often associated with low-pressure systems developing in the West Central Bay of Bengal and neighboring regions.
• Districts like Mahabubnagar and Nalgonda have faced torrential and continuous rains in certain years such as 2009, 2012, and 2013.

Floods

• Floods in Telangana are influenced by various factors, including prolonged and heavy rainfall, which can overwhelm natural drainage systems.
• The susceptibility to floods varies based on factors such as the terrain, soil type, vegetation cover, and rainfall patterns. Khammam district is particularly prone to monsoon-related flooding.

Droughts

• Droughts in Telangana occur when the annual rainfall falls below 75% of the long-term average, as defined by the Central Water Commission.
• Droughts are a recurring aspect of Telangana's climate, affecting different regions to varying degrees. The severity and impact of droughts can differ based on local conditions.
• For instance, during the year 1995, numerous mandals across districts experienced the effects of drought, highlighting the cyclical nature of this climatic phenomenon.

Historical Drought Conditions in Telangana

• Telangana has a history of facing drought conditions, particularly in regions like Rangareddy, Mahabubnagar, and Nalgonda districts.
• Climate projections indicate an increasing trend of drought occurrences in districts such as Nalgonda and Mahabubnagar.
• Impact of drought extends beyond water resources to affect various dependent sectors.
• Increased drought conditions pose threats to agricultural and pastoral livelihoods, raising vulnerability for farmers and communities relying on such livelihoods.
• Crop failures due to drought can lead to household food insecurity for farmers heavily dependent on rainfall for agricultural activities.
• Drought conditions can result in malnutrition or diseases in livestock for pastoralists and agro-pastoralists due to inadequate fodder.

Heat Waves in Telangana's Climate

• A heat wave is an extreme climatic event characterized by significantly higher temperatures than normal, typically occurring during the summer months of April to June.
• In districts like Khammam, Nizamabad, Nalgonda, Karimnagar, and Warangal, temperatures can soar, sometimes reaching up to 47°C in May.
• During the period of 1986-1993, heat waves were relatively moderate with a maximum duration of seven days.
• Notable instances include a recorded maximum temperature of 47°C in Nalgonda and Ramagundam on May 11, 1998.
• Since 1994, there has been a noticeable increase in the frequency and intensity of severe heat waves in the region.
• This escalation in heat wave occurrences can have significant impacts on various sectors and communities.

State Action Plan on Climate Change for Telangana State

• Duration of moderate to severe heat wave spells extended up to 19 days.
• Despite government efforts, 541 deaths were reported in 2015 due to sunstroke, with maximum fatalities in Nalgonda, Khammam, Karimnagar, and Mahabubnagar districts where temperatures exceeded 45°C.

Effects of Climate Change on the Climate of Telangana

• Higher vulnerability of the state to climate change impacts.
• River basins are at risk due to changing precipitation and temperature patterns.
• Industrial areas face challenges from unscientific construction practices and water/electricity scarcity.
• Lack of awareness among rural and urban populations about climate change impacts.
• Absence of a Climate Change knowledge center in the state.