Rajasthan - Climate | RPSC Preparation: All subjects - RPSC RAS (Rajasthan) PDF Download

Introduction

Climate refers to the long-term weather patterns in a specific area. Different regions are categorized by distinct types of climate. In India, the climate is referred to as a monsoon climate. Climate is a crucial aspect of the natural environment and plays a significant role in shaping and influencing the socio-economic conditions of any location.

Climate of Rajasthan 

Rajasthan exhibits diverse climatic elements, including temperature, atmospheric pressure, winds, rainfall, and day length variations. The region showcases contrasting climatic conditions, with arid landscapes in the west and relatively more humid conditions in the east.
Let's delve deeper into these climatic variations:

• Climatic Conditions In Western Rajasthan: The arid western regions of Rajasthan are characterized by scanty rainfall and high temperatures. This area experiences intense heat waves, locally known as "loo," due to the scorching temperatures.
• Climatic Conditions In Eastern Rajasthan: Conversely, eastern Rajasthan encounters comparatively higher rainfall and lower temperatures than its western counterpart. This region enjoys a milder climate with more moderate temperature ranges.

Features of Climate in Rajasthan

Some features of the climate of Rajasthan are discussed below:

• Rajasthan is blessed with a sub-humid and dry climate.
• Rajasthan receives scattered rainfall.
• The daily and annual temperatures are high mostly due to the availability of higher amounts of sand in the desert region.
• Monsoon season brings rainfall in Rajasthan, and rain received by the Eastern parts of Rajasthan is comparatively higher in the Western regions.
• The climate of Rajasthan faces variations in terms of temperature. Generally, the temperature during winter is very low, leading to freezing temperatures in some areas.
• Temperatures during summer are mostly very high.

Climatic Regions in Rajasthan 

The climate of Rajasthan is categorized into different types for better comprehension. Let's explore these classifications in detail.

Koeppen's Classification 

Koeppen's system classifies Rajasthan's climate as per the following criteria:

Thornthwaite Classification 

Thornthwaite's classification takes into account the seasonal and monthly distribution of temperature and rainfall, along with precipitation and evaporation levels. The climate of Rajasthan can be divided into four distinct areas based on this classification.
Let's delve deeper into Thornthwaite's approach:

Agro-climatic Zones in Rajasthan 

The state of Rajasthan has been categorized into three agro-climatic regions for better understanding and management:

• Zone VI: Trans-Gangetic Plains area
• Zone VIII: Central Plateau and Hills region
• Zone XIV: Western Dry region

These zones are further divided into nine sub-zones, each characterized by distinct climatic conditions and agricultural productivity. Let's delve into the specifics of these sub-zones: