Climatic Zones of India

6 Climatic Zones of India

Climatic Zone Description States/Regions Tropical Wet Characterized by high temperatures and abundant rainfall throughout the year, with dense vegetation and lush forests. Kerala, parts of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andaman & Nicobar Islands Tropical Wet and Dry Features distinct wet and dry seasons, with heavy rainfall during the monsoon season followed by a drier period. Maharashtra, parts of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, West Bengal, Assam Subtropical Humid Moderate to high temperatures with humid conditions, particularly during the summer months, and moderate rainfall throughout the year. Northern plains, parts of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Assam Subtropical Dry Hot summers with dry conditions, followed by cooler winters. Rainfall is scarce, and vegetation is adapted to arid or semi-arid conditions. Rajasthan, parts of Gujarat, Haryana, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh Arid Extremely dry conditions with very low precipitation levels throughout the year. Characterized by desert landscapes and sparse vegetation. Thar Desert region (Rajasthan), parts of Gujarat Alpine High-altitude regions with cold temperatures, snowfall, and alpine vegetation. Temperatures can drop below freezing, particularly in winter. Himalayan states: Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh...

Koeppen’s Scheme Of Climatic Zones of India

According to Köppen’s scheme of climatic classification, India can be divided into the following major climatic zones:...

What are Climatic Regions?

The following describes the climatic regions:...

Types of Climatic Regions in India

Tropical Wet (Humid): This climate is experienced in the coastal regions of the country, including the Western Ghats, the island territories, and parts of the eastern coast. It is characterized by high temperatures, high humidity, and abundant rainfall, influenced by the monsoon winds. Tropical Dry: This arid or semi-arid climate is prevalent in the northwestern parts of India, including regions like Rajasthan, Gujarat, and parts of Punjab and Haryana. These areas have very high temperatures, low humidity, and scanty rainfall. Subtropical Humid: The northeastern states of India, including Assam, Meghalaya, and parts of West Bengal, experience a subtropical humid climate. This region receives heavy rainfall during the monsoon season and has high humidity levels. Mountain/Highland Climate: The Himalayan region, including states like Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, has a mountain climate characterized by cold temperatures, heavy snowfall, and varying precipitation patterns based on altitude. Continental Climate: The northern plains of India, including parts of Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar, experience a continental climate with extreme temperatures (hot summers and cold winters) and moderate rainfall. Mediterranean Climate: Some parts of the Western Ghats and the Nilgiri Hills in southern India have a Mediterranean climate, with mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers....

Factors Causing Climatic Regions In India

Monsoon Winds: The monsoon winds play a crucial role in determining the climate of India. The southwest monsoon (June-September) brings heavy rainfall to most parts of the country, while the northeast monsoon (October-December) causes rainfall in the southern regions. Topography: India’s diverse topography, including the Himalayas in the north, the Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats along the coasts, and the Deccan Plateau in the center, significantly influences the climate. These physical features affect wind patterns, rainfall distribution, and temperature variations. Altitude: Altitude is a key factor in determining the climate in different regions of India. Higher altitudes, such as the Himalayas, experience colder temperatures and more precipitation, while lower altitudes, like the plains, have warmer and drier conditions. Distance from the Sea: The proximity to the sea or ocean affects the climate. Coastal regions tend to have a more moderate climate due to the influence of sea breezes, while inland areas experience greater temperature extremes and less humidity. Pressure and Wind Systems: The movement of different air pressure systems and wind patterns, such as the Western Disturbances and the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO), can influence the climate of various regions in India. Ocean Currents: The warm ocean currents in the Indian Ocean, such as the Arabian Sea Current and the Bay of Bengal Current, can impact the climate of coastal areas by influencing temperature and precipitation patterns. Latitude: The latitudinal position of different regions in India also plays a role in determining the climate. Areas closer to the equator experience a tropical climate, while regions further away have more temperate or continental climates....

Conclusion

India’s climatic diversity is proof to its unique geographic features and position. From the tropical wet regions of the Western Ghats to the arid deserts of Rajasthan, and from the subtropical humid areas of the northeast to the alpine climate of the Himalayas, India’s climatic regions offer a rich tapestry of environmental conditions. Recognizing and adapting to these climatic variations is essential for sustainable development and environmental conservation efforts across the nation....

FAQs on India’s Climatic Regions

What are the major climatic regions in India?...