Indian Monsoon

The position of the monsoon trough affects rainfall belts. Its shift can change rainfall amounts in different regions.

Burst is sudden heavy rainfall and break is temporary reduction in rainfall. Both can affect agricultural planning.

Total rainfall may be normal but rain at the wrong time or place can create problems. Remember both distribution and timing.

During the south-west monsoon Tamil Nadu can be on the leeward side. Retreating winds bring moisture from Bay of Bengal and give rain.

During retreating monsoon low pressure and cyclonic conditions can form over Bay of Bengal. This can affect the eastern coast.

The Himalaya acts as a natural barrier. It affects both cold winds and monsoon rainfall.

Before monsoon the landmass becomes very hot and low pressure develops. This helps the arrival of moisture-laden winds.

The Himalaya blocks monsoon winds from moving further north. Thus they move along the Ganga Plain and give rainfall.

Monsoon rainfall is necessary for life and agriculture. But excessive rainfall can cause floods and landslides.

Rainfall distribution is as important as total amount. Heavy rain in few days can harm water management and farming.

A long break during monsoon can reduce soil moisture. This may affect the growth of kharif crops.

Monsoon rainfall is not controlled by one reason. Branches, mountains, distance and moisture create regional differences.

A large part of Indian agriculture is affected by monsoon. Weak monsoon can affect production and food availability.

Monsoon rainfall is a main base for water storage and groundwater recharge. Therefore water planning may depend on monsoon.

The normal onset of monsoon begins at the Kerala coast. Then its branches advance and give rainfall in different regions.

Monsoon withdrawal is not sudden but occurs gradually from different regions. It is called retreating monsoon.

North-east winds take moisture while crossing the Bay of Bengal. This moisture gives rainfall on Tamil Nadu coast.

Continuous or heavy rain increases water saturation and looseness on slopes. This raises the possibility of landslides.

Monsoon can give excess rain in some places and deficient rain in others. Therefore flood and drought risks can arise in the same season.

Monsoon can be uncertain, so timely information helps decision making. This improves agriculture and risk management.