Climate of India

VidyaarOctober 13, 20260196 views

Q170. Which seasonal process over India is triggered when the Inter Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) shifts northwards to about 20°N–25°N by mid-July, causing a complete reversal in wind circulation?

[OSSC CGLRE 2025 Mains, Paper II General Studies (8 July 2026)]

(A) Formation of Western Disturbances

(B) Strengthening of Subtropical Jet Streams

(D) Onset of the Southwest Monsoon

Answer: (D) Onset of the Southwest Monsoon

Explanation: The northward displacement of the ITCZ creates the summer monsoon trough over northern India. The pressure gradient draws moisture-bearing winds inland, producing the southwest monsoon. Western disturbances are mainly associated with westerly circulation and winter precipitation.

Q169. What is a characteristic of rainfall in the Tropical Monsoon Climate?

[OSSC CGLRE 2025 Mains, Paper II General Studies (8 July 2026)]

(A) Heavy rainfall in winter

(B) Rainfall only during spring

(D) Heavy rainfall in summer and dry winter

Answer: (D) Heavy rainfall in summer and dry winter

Explanation: Tropical monsoon climates normally have a pronounced wet summer and a comparatively dry winter. Seasonal changes in pressure and wind direction control the timing of precipitation. India displays this pattern, although its southeastern coast receives important winter-season rain.

Q168. Which factors are mainly responsible for prevailing drought conditions in western Rajasthan?
(a) Aravallis run parallel to the Arabian Sea branch.
(b) Aravallis run parallel to the Bay of Bengal branch.
(c) Low height of Aravallis and limited vegetation.
(d) Lower moisture in the Arabian Sea branch than Bay of Bengal branch.

[RSMSSB Forester (28 June 2026)]

(A) (a) and (c) only

(B) (a), (c) and (d) only

(D) (a) and (d) only

Answer: (B) (a), (c) and (d) only

Explanation: The examination key identifies statements (a), (c) and (d). The orientation of the Aravallis limits uplift of moisture-bearing southwesterlies, while low relief and sparse vegetation reinforce aridity. Rainfall distribution in Rajasthan also depends on monsoon track and variability.

Q167. Which climatic phenomenon is responsible for sudden winter rainfall in north-west India?

[RRB NTPC UG CBT-I (19 June 2026, Shift 3)]

(A) Western Disturbances

(B) Local winds

(D) Easterly waves

Answer: (A) Western Disturbances

Explanation: Western disturbances are eastward-moving extratropical systems originating around the Mediterranean region. They bring winter showers to Punjab, Haryana and nearby plains, and snowfall to the western Himalayas. The rain supports rabi crops, particularly wheat, despite the otherwise dry season.

Q166. Which physical process creates the seasonal pressure difference between the Indian subcontinent and surrounding oceans that initiates summer monsoon winds?

[RRB NTPC UG CBT-I (19 June 2026, Shift 1)]

(A) Weak Coriolis force

(B) Presence of the Himalayas

(D) Variation in rainfall pattern

Answer: (C) Differential heating of land and sea

Explanation: Land warms more rapidly than water in summer, producing relatively low pressure over India and higher pressure over surrounding seas. This gradient helps draw moist winds inland. The Coriolis force deflects winds but does not create the heating contrast.

Q165. Which of the following is NOT included in the four official meteorological seasons of India?

[RRB NTPC UG CBT-I (15 June 2026, Shift 3)]

(A) Summer season

(B) Spring season

(D) Winter season

Answer: (B) Spring season

Explanation: The official four-season classification recognizes winter, pre-monsoon hot weather, southwest monsoon and post-monsoon periods. Spring has cultural and traditional importance but is not listed as a separate standard meteorological season. The distinction helps organize weather observations consistently.

Q164. Which branch of the monsoon brings rainfall to India’s western coast?

[RRB NTPC UG CBT-I (14 June 2026, Shift 1)]

(A) Western Disturbances

(B) South-West Monsoon Arabian Sea branch

(D) North-East Monsoon

Answer: (B) South-West Monsoon Arabian Sea branch

Explanation: The Arabian Sea branch strikes the west coast and rises along the Western Ghats. Cooling during ascent produces intense orographic rainfall in Kerala, coastal Karnataka and Konkan. The Bay of Bengal branch influences the northeast and Indo-Gangetic plains more directly.

Q163. The Konkan region’s vulnerability to heavy rainfall is mainly due to:

[Bihar Police Prohibition Constable, memory-based (14 June 2026, Shift 1)]

(A) Rain shadow effect

(B) Western Ghats orographic effect

(D) Lack of river system

Answer: (B) Western Ghats orographic effect

Explanation: Moist southwesterly winds from the Arabian Sea rise steeply against the Western Ghats, cooling and condensing into heavy rainfall. Konkan lies on the windward side, unlike the drier leeward plateau. This explains the region’s strong monsoonal precipitation.

Q162. Loo is ____ and ____ local wind of northern plains of India.

[SSC GD Constable (30 May 2026, Shift 2)]

(A) hot, dry

(B) cold, dry

(D) cold, wet

Answer: (A) hot, dry

Explanation: The Loo is a very hot, dry, sometimes gusty summer wind associated with intense heating of northwestern India and the Indo-Gangetic plains. It is most prominent before monsoon onset and can cause serious heat stress and dehydration.

Q161. Which season in India is characterised by hot, dry winds known as Loo?

[RRB NTPC UG CBT-I (9 May 2026, Shift 1)]

(A) Summer season

(B) Pre-monsoon showers

(D) Retreating monsoon

Answer: (A) Summer season

Explanation: Loo blows across northern and northwestern India during the hot weather season, particularly May and June. Intense ground heating raises temperatures and makes the air exceptionally dry. Moist monsoon winds generally replace these conditions as seasonal rainfall begins.

Q160. Which wind system primarily causes winter rainfall on the Coromandel Coast?

[RRB NTPC UG CBT-I (7 May 2026, Shift 3)]

(A) Northeast monsoon winds

(B) Western disturbances

(D) Southwest monsoon winds

Answer: (A) Northeast monsoon winds

Explanation: The northeast, or retreating, monsoon picks up moisture while crossing the Bay of Bengal and brings rain to coastal Tamil Nadu, especially October–December. Western disturbances instead influence northern India, while southwest monsoon rainfall predominates across most other regions.

Q159. Which part of India experiences the highest rainfall due to the monsoon?

[SSC GD Constable (29 April 2026, Shift 3)]

(A) Kerala Coast

(B) Mawsynram, Meghalaya

(D) Western Rajasthan

Answer: (B) Mawsynram, Meghalaya

Explanation: Mawsynram lies in the Khasi Hills of Meghalaya. Moist winds from the Bay of Bengal are uplifted by the terrain, producing exceptional orographic rainfall. By contrast, western Rajasthan is comparatively dry, while both Kerala and Konkan receive substantial but lower averages.

Q158. Which best describes the overall climatic condition of Odisha?

[OSSSC Forester, Forest Guard & Excise Constable (27 April 2026, Shift 2)]

(A) Hot semi-arid climate with low annual rainfall

(B) Subtropical desert climate with extreme temperature range

(D) Tropical monsoon climate with distinct wet and dry seasons

Answer: (D) Tropical monsoon climate with distinct wet and dry seasons

Explanation: Odisha has warm tropical conditions and marked seasonal rainfall, much of it supplied by the southwest monsoon from the Bay of Bengal. Its wet summers contrast with a relatively drier winter, although post-monsoon cyclones can also produce precipitation.

Q157. Which feature best distinguishes the Great Indian Desert from other regions of India?

[DSSSB MTS (22 April 2026, Shift 2)]

(A) Arid climate

(B) Fertile soil

(D) Dense forests

Answer: (A) Arid climate

Explanation: The Thar Desert is defined by low and irregular rainfall, high potential evaporation and sparse vegetation. Its arid climate distinguishes it from the wetter monsoon belts of India. Desert conditions persist despite occasional intense short-duration rain events.

Q156. The winter rainfall in Tamil Nadu is caused by which of the following?

[OSSSC Forester, Forest Guard & Excise Constable (20 April 2026, Shift 2)]

(A) Tropical cyclone

(B) Western disturbances

(D) Retreating monsoon

Answer: (D) Retreating monsoon

Explanation: Tamil Nadu receives much of its rain from the northeast or retreating monsoon, generally during October–December. Winds cross the Bay of Bengal, acquire moisture and bring showers to the southeast coast. Cyclones may amplify the seasonal rainfall.

Q155. The descending limb of the Hadley Cell contributes directly to the formation of:

[UPHESC Assistant Professor Geography (19 April 2026, Shift 1)]

(A) Monsoon trough

(B) Subtropical deserts

(D) Equatorial low pressure

Answer: (B) Subtropical deserts

Explanation: Air sinking in the subtropical branch of the Hadley circulation warms and becomes relatively dry, discouraging clouds and precipitation. This helps explain major desert belts around thirty degrees latitude. The equatorial rising branch instead encourages convection and rainfall.

Q154. Which best describes the general climate of Odisha?

[OSSSC Forester, Forest Guard & Excise Constable (18 April 2026, Shift 3)]

(A) Hot semi-arid climate with scanty rainfall throughout the year

(B) Sub-tropical steppe climate influenced mainly by western disturbances

(D) Temperate climate with uniform temperature year-round

Answer: (C) Tropical monsoon climate with high humidity and distinct wet and dry seasons

Explanation: Odisha experiences a tropical monsoon regime shaped by the Bay of Bengal and seasonal wind reversal. Humidity is often high, summer rains are substantial and winter is comparatively dry. Occasional tropical depressions and cyclones further modify coastal weather.

Q153. Which phenomenon is mainly responsible for October heat in the Northern Plains of India?

[OSSSC Forester, Forest Guard & Excise Constable (16 April 2026, Shift 2)]

(A) Intensification of low-pressure systems over northern India

(B) High temperature and humidity after withdrawal of monsoon

(D) Onset of winter bringing cool conditions

Answer: (B) High temperature and humidity after withdrawal of monsoon

Explanation: After monsoon withdrawal, skies clear and daytime heating increases while residual atmospheric moisture remains high. Warmth combined with humidity makes the weather uncomfortable, popularly called October heat. It is a transitional feature before cooler and drier winter conditions develop.

Q152. Which statement correctly describes the Great Indian Desert?

[DSSSB PRT (31 March 2026, Shift 1)]

(A) It lies in northeastern India and receives high rainfall

(B) It lies east of the Aravallis and has fertile alluvial soil

(D) It is volcanic and rich in black soil

Answer: (C) It is a hot northwestern desert with arid climate and sandy soil

Explanation: The Thar occupies northwestern India, especially western Rajasthan, and is characterized by sandy surfaces, scant rainfall and large temperature ranges. Moist monsoon currents provide limited precipitation in many areas, helping maintain its hot desert environment.

Q151. Which place in India receives maximum average annual rainfall and is among the wettest places worldwide?

[DSSSB PRT (26 March 2026, Shift 3)]

(A) Bhopal

(B) Mawsynram

(D) Guwahati

Answer: (B) Mawsynram

Explanation: Mawsynram in Meghalaya receives exceptionally heavy precipitation as moist Bay of Bengal winds encounter the steep southern Khasi Hills. The forced ascent promotes condensation and rainfall. Its annual average is much higher than those of the other listed cities.

Q150. What is the primary reason for intensification of the monsoon trough over North India by the end of May?

[RRB NTPC Graduate CBT-I (25 March 2026, Shift 1)]

(A) Shift in wind patterns

(B) Decrease in humidity

(D) High temperature in the region

Answer: (D) High temperature in the region

Explanation: Intense late-summer heating over northern and northwestern India strengthens a low-pressure zone called the monsoon trough. The pressure contrast with surrounding oceans favors inflow of moist air. Rising, rather than increasing, pressure would suppress the trough.

Q149. The period of southwest monsoon season in India is:

[RRB NTPC Graduate CBT-I (22 March 2026, Shift 2)]

(A) May to September

(B) June to November

(D) July to December

Answer: (C) June to September

Explanation: June through September is the principal southwest monsoon period under India’s meteorological seasonal classification. Much of the annual rainfall arrives during these months. Withdrawal begins from northwest India before the country enters the post-monsoon transition.

Q148. Why did nearly 19% of India face drought or drought-like conditions by August 2025 despite earlier heavy rains?

[RRB NTPC Graduate CBT-I (22 March 2026, Shift 2)]

(A) A sharp reversal led to severe rainfall deficits in many regions

(B) Excessive river damming caused water shortages

(D) Monsoon onset was delayed across all states

Answer: (A) A sharp reversal led to severe rainfall deficits in many regions

Explanation: A rainy start does not guarantee uniformly distributed rainfall. A subsequent weakening or spatial shift of monsoon activity can create large regional rainfall deficits, crop stress and water shortages. This question concerns variability within the season rather than total onset timing.

Q147. Mango showers occur in which of the following groups of states?

[RRB NTPC Graduate CBT-I (19 March 2026, Shift 2)]

(A) Karnataka and Kerala

(B) Bihar and West Bengal

(D) Kerala and Tamil Nadu

Answer: (A) Karnataka and Kerala

Explanation: Mango showers are pre-monsoon convective rains common in Kerala and Karnataka during April–May. They help mango fruits mature and provide early relief from summer heat. They should not be confused with the northeast monsoon rains of Tamil Nadu.

Q146. Which monsoon system is also known as the retreating monsoon?

[RRB NTPC Graduate CBT-I (17 March 2026, Shift 2)]

(A) Advancing Monsoon

(B) Western Disturbances

(D) Southwest Monsoon

Answer: (C) Northeast Monsoon

Explanation: The retreating phase follows the weakening of southwest monsoon circulation. Northeasterly winds begin to dominate and can carry moisture across the Bay of Bengal toward Tamil Nadu. This contrasts with summer southwesterlies that provide most of India’s rainfall.

Q145. Which states suffered 30–70% below-normal rainfall in August 2025, contributing to crop stress and water shortages?

[RRB NTPC Graduate CBT-I (17 March 2026, Shift 2)]

(A) Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh, Bihar, UP, Punjab and the Northeast

(B) Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Goa and Gujarat

(D) Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh

Answer: (A) Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh, Bihar, UP, Punjab and the Northeast

Explanation: The reported rainfall anomaly affected several northern and northeastern regions even while other parts received better precipitation. Monsoon totals can differ sharply across places and months. Deficits during the main crop-growing period may cause irrigation demand and agricultural stress.

Q144. Cherrapunji and Mawsynram, which receive very high rainfall, are located in:

[RRB Technician Grade III (10 March 2026, Shift 2)]

(A) Nilgiri Hills

(B) Khasi Hills

(D) Aravalli Hills

Answer: (B) Khasi Hills

Explanation: Both places lie in Meghalaya’s Khasi Hills. Moist monsoon flow from the Bay of Bengal is funneled toward steep southern slopes and forced upward, generating extreme rainfall. The Nilgiris, Satpuras and Aravallis are different mountain systems.

Q143. Which city experiences retreat of the monsoon last among the following?

[RRB Technician Grade III (9 March 2026, Shift 1)]

(A) Chennai

(B) Jaipur

(D) Mumbai

Answer: (A) Chennai

Explanation: Monsoon withdrawal begins over northwestern India and progressively advances toward the southern peninsula. Chennai, on the southeastern coast, is the last among the listed cities. Its important northeast monsoon rainfall can also continue after southwest monsoon withdrawal.

Q142. Rabi crops are harvested in which season?

[RRB Group D (5 February 2026, Shift 1)]

(A) Summer

(B) Autumn

(D) Monsoon

Answer: (A) Summer

Explanation: Rabi crops are sown in the cooler months after monsoon withdrawal and harvested mostly in spring or early summer. Wheat and mustard are examples. Winter rains from western disturbances can benefit these crops in northwestern India.

Q141. Which states in India receive medium annual rainfall of about 100–200 cm?

[MP Police Sub-Inspector (21 January 2026, Shift 2)]

(A) Odisha and Bihar

(B) Western Rajasthan

(D) Delhi and Punjab

Answer: (A) Odisha and Bihar

Explanation: Odisha and Bihar receive substantial monsoon rainfall, placing large areas in the medium-rainfall category stated in the question. Ladakh and much of western Rajasthan are much drier, while Delhi and Punjab generally record lower annual totals.

Q140. What type of climate is found in the higher Himalayas in India?

[MP Police Sub-Inspector (21 January 2026, Shift 2)]

(A) Alpine

(B) Temperate

(D) Arid

Answer: (A) Alpine

Explanation: High elevations have very low temperatures, long snowy winters and brief cool summers, characteristic of an alpine climate. Temperature decreases with altitude, making conditions distinct from the warm tropical plains. Snowfall may supply water through later seasonal melting.

Q139. Why are places near the Equator generally warmer than those near the poles?

[MP Police Sub-Inspector (21 January 2026, Shift 2)]

(A) The Equator has thicker atmosphere

(B) Sun rays strike nearly perpendicular at the Equator

(D) Poles have more mountains

Answer: (B) Sun rays strike nearly perpendicular at the Equator

Explanation: Near the Equator, sunlight generally strikes at a high angle, concentrating energy over a smaller area. Toward the poles, oblique rays spread energy over larger surfaces. This latitude effect strongly influences temperature belts and atmospheric circulation affecting India.

Q138. What is the approximate rainfall range for tropical deciduous forests in India?

[MP Police Sub-Inspector (18 January 2026, Shift 1)]

(A) 70–200 cm

(B) Less than 50 cm

(D) 50–100 cm

Answer: (A) 70–200 cm

Explanation: Tropical deciduous, or monsoon, forests generally occur where rainfall is seasonal and moderate, roughly 70–200 cm annually. Trees shed leaves during the dry season to conserve water. Wetter areas favor evergreen forest, while drier areas support thorn scrub.

Q137. Forests and scrubs in India are typically found in regions receiving approximately:

[MP Police Sub-Inspector (17 January 2026, Shift 2)]

(A) 70–100 cm of rainfall

(B) More than 200 cm of rainfall

(D) Less than 70 cm of rainfall

Answer: (D) Less than 70 cm of rainfall

Explanation: Thorn forest and scrub vegetation develop where rainfall is sparse, often below 70 cm each year. Xerophytic species conserve moisture through small leaves, thorns or deep roots. Such conditions occur in dry parts of Rajasthan, Gujarat and central India.

Q136. Which state among these does NOT characteristically have tropical thorn forests?

[MP Police Sub-Inspector (16 January 2026, Shift 1)]

(A) Madhya Pradesh

(B) West Bengal

(D) Gujarat

Answer: (B) West Bengal

Explanation: Thorn scrub vegetation thrives in drier climatic belts of Rajasthan, Gujarat and some parts of Madhya Pradesh. West Bengal is generally more humid and receives more monsoon rainfall, favoring moist deciduous, evergreen or mangrove vegetation in suitable locations.

Q135. Western disturbances, which cause winter rainfall in North India, originate from where?

[Delhi Police Constable Executive (2 January 2026, Shift 1)]

(A) Bay of Bengal

(B) Arabian Sea

(D) Indian Ocean

Answer: (C) Mediterranean Sea

Explanation: These extratropical storm systems approach India from the west after forming in and around the Mediterranean region. They bring winter rainfall to the northwestern plains and snowfall to western Himalayan mountains. Their moisture is important to wheat-growing areas.

Q134. The southwest monsoon period from ______ is known as the rainy season in most of India.

[RRB NTPC UG CBT-II (20 December 2025)]

(A) June to August

(B) May to August

(D) June to September

Answer: (D) June to September

Explanation: The main southwest monsoon runs from June through September, though its onset and withdrawal dates vary by location and year. It provides the bulk of annual rainfall across much of India and supports kharif agriculture.

Q133. The Chota Nagpur plateau region receives the majority of its rainfall through which wind system?

[SSC CPO (11 December 2025, Shift 1)]

(A) Arabian Sea branch of Southwest monsoon

(B) Bay of Bengal branch of Southwest monsoon

(D) None of these

Answer: (A) Arabian Sea branch of Southwest monsoon

Explanation: The cited paper’s answer key identifies the Arabian Sea branch. Chota Nagpur can also be influenced by Bay of Bengal moisture, and its rainfall reflects complex regional wind flow and terrain. Read this as the reported exam answer, not an exclusive mechanism.

Q132. According to OSDMA, approximately what proportion of Odisha’s annual rainfall occurs during June–September?

[OSSSC CRE Preliminary Exam (8 November 2025, Shift 1)]

(A) 45–50%

(B) 65–70%

(D) 55–60%

Answer: (C) 75–80%

Explanation: Odisha receives roughly three-quarters to four-fifths of its rainfall from the summer southwest monsoon. This strongly seasonal distribution makes reservoirs and agriculture dependent on the rainy months. Cyclonic systems can contribute additional precipitation during the post-monsoon period.

Q131. From which state does the southwest monsoon enter mainland India?

[DSSSB TGT Social Science (8 November 2025, Shift 3)]

(A) Rajasthan

(B) West Bengal

(D) Kerala

Answer: (D) Kerala

Explanation: The normal onset of the southwest monsoon over mainland India is observed along the Kerala coast, usually around early June. The monsoon reaches other states progressively through Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal branches, with considerable yearly variation.

Q130. Which factor primarily divides the southwest monsoon into Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal branches?

[OSSSC CRE Preliminary Exam (2 November 2025, Shift 2)]

(A) Peninsular shape of India

(B) Tropic of Cancer

(D) Himalayas

Answer: (A) Peninsular shape of India

Explanation: India’s triangular peninsula creates two oceanic flanks through which moist monsoon winds approach. These paths are conventionally called the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal branches. Relief barriers then govern where air rises, cools and produces rainfall.

Q129. Which of the following affects the Indian monsoon?

[UPSSSC PET (7 September 2025, Shift 1)]

(A) El Niño

(B) Tibetan Plateau

(D) All of the above

(E) None of the above

Answer: (D) All of the above

Explanation: Indian monsoon strength depends on interacting regional and global mechanisms. Pacific El Niño conditions may alter circulation, summer heating of the Tibetan Plateau influences pressure, and upper-level jet streams help regulate onset and withdrawal. All three factors matter.

Q128. The retreating monsoon causes rainfall mainly in which state?

[RRB NTPC UG CBT-I (4 September 2025, Shift 2)]

(A) Assam

(B) Tamil Nadu

(D) Punjab

Answer: (B) Tamil Nadu

Explanation: Northeast monsoon winds bring important October–December rains to Tamil Nadu after picking up moisture over the Bay of Bengal. Most other listed states obtain their principal rainfall from summer southwest monsoon systems or winter disturbances instead.

Q127. Which local wind system brings rain to Tamil Nadu during winter?

[RRB NTPC UG CBT-I (2 September 2025, Shift 1)]

(A) Northeast monsoon

(B) Jet stream

(D) Norwester

Answer: (A) Northeast monsoon

Explanation: The northeast monsoon supplies rainfall to coastal Tamil Nadu when northeasterly winds cross the Bay of Bengal. The season differs from the southwest monsoon prevalent in June–September. Upper-level jet streams are not themselves the direct local rain-bearing winds.

Q126. Why is rainfall unevenly distributed in India during the southwest monsoon?

[RRB NTPC UG CBT-I (1 September 2025, Shift 2)]

(A) Mountains influence wind direction and intensity

(B) Monsoon winds blow equally everywhere

(D) Only southern states get rain

Answer: (A) Mountains influence wind direction and intensity

Explanation: Topography produces major regional contrasts. Moist monsoon winds rise over the Western Ghats and Khasi Hills, causing heavy windward rainfall and relative dryness downwind. Wind trajectories, depressions and changing monsoon trough position add further spatial variability.

Q125. Western disturbances mainly affect weather in which region of India?

[RRB NTPC UG CBT-I (29 August 2025, Shift 1)]

(A) North-West India

(B) Coastal Andhra Pradesh

(D) Deccan Plateau

Answer: (A) North-West India

Explanation: Western disturbances arrive from the Mediterranean region and predominantly affect northwestern India and the western Himalayas during winter. They produce rain, clouds and mountain snowfall. They are distinct from Bay of Bengal cyclones and the coastal northeast monsoon.

Q124. In which climate station does the southwest monsoon arrive first among these?

[AP High Court Common Recruitment Paper (23 August 2025, Shift 3)]

(A) Kolkata

(B) Thiruvananthapuram

(D) Delhi

Answer: (B) Thiruvananthapuram

Explanation: Thiruvananthapuram lies near the southern Kerala coast where the summer monsoon usually reaches the mainland first. Kolkata and Delhi experience later progression of the monsoon, while Chennai’s chief rainy season is associated with the northeast monsoon.

Q123. What is the primary cause of the southwest monsoon in India?

[RRB NTPC UG CBT-I (22 August 2025, Shift 1)]

(A) Tidal effects

(B) Differential heating of land and sea

(D) Local desert winds

Answer: (B) Differential heating of land and sea

Explanation: The landmass heats more quickly than surrounding oceans during summer, producing a pressure gradient that draws moist air toward India. The Coriolis effect and seasonal ITCZ shift further shape circulation, but tidal forces do not initiate the monsoon.

Q122. Where do western disturbances originate?

[DSSSB ASO (22 August 2025, Shift 1)]

(A) Bay of Bengal

(B) Mediterranean Sea

(D) Arabian Sea

Answer: (B) Mediterranean Sea

Explanation: Western disturbances are midlatitude extratropical weather systems associated with the Mediterranean region and westerly airflow. As they move eastward they can bring rain to northwest India and snow to the Himalayas, supplementing winter moisture outside the monsoon season.

Q121. What primarily causes the rain-shadow effect in the Western Ghats region?

[SSC Selection Post Matriculation (1 August 2025, Shift 2)]

(A) Himalayas blocking monsoon winds

(B) Western Ghats intercepting moist winds from the Arabian Sea

(D) Deccan Plateau blocking Bay winds

Answer: (B) Western Ghats intercepting moist winds from the Arabian Sea

Explanation: When moist Arabian Sea winds climb the Western Ghats, air cools and produces heavy rain on western slopes. Descending air on the eastern side warms and becomes drier. This orographic barrier generates the familiar Deccan rain-shadow pattern.

Q120. Which brings winter rainfall to the northern plains of India?

[RRB NTPC Graduate CBT-I (17 June 2025, Shift 1)]

(A) Norwesters

(B) Bay of Bengal cyclones

(D) Western disturbances

Answer: (D) Western disturbances

Explanation: Western disturbances enter northwestern India with the prevailing westerly circulation and produce winter precipitation. They are particularly important for rabi cultivation. Norwesters are pre-monsoon thunderstorms characteristic of eastern India, not the principal winter-rain system.

Q119. How does the subtropical jet stream contribute to monsoon withdrawal?

[RRB NTPC Graduate CBT-I (12 June 2025, Shift 3)]

(A) Intensifies ITCZ

(B) Replaces tropical easterlies

(D) Triggers cold-air advection

Answer: (C) Induces subsidence over land

Explanation: As monsoon circulation weakens, upper-air wind patterns reorganize and stable descending air can suppress convection. The reported answer emphasizes subsidence. Monsoon withdrawal more broadly also reflects cooling of land and the southward migration of the ITCZ.

Q118. Which Indian state receives rainfall from both southwest and northeast monsoons?

[RRB NTPC Graduate CBT-I (12 June 2025, Shift 1)]

(A) Bihar

(B) Tamil Nadu

(D) Gujarat

Answer: (B) Tamil Nadu

Explanation: Tamil Nadu receives some summer southwest monsoon rain but a particularly important share during the northeast monsoon of October–December. Its coastal orientation and position east of the Western Ghats explain this seasonal contrast compared with most other states.

Q117. What explains temporary cessation of rainfall during southwest monsoon over parts of India?

[RRB NTPC Graduate CBT-I (11 June 2025, Shift 3)]

(A) Easterly trough development

(B) Break in monsoon

(D) Cross-equatorial surge

Answer: (B) Break in monsoon

Explanation: A break in the monsoon is a temporary decline in rainfall during an otherwise active rainy season. Changes in the position and strength of the monsoon trough often cause such spells. Rainfall may continue in other areas during the break.

Q116. Which seasonal change marks withdrawal of the monsoon in India?

[RRB NTPC Graduate CBT-I (11 June 2025, Shift 2)]

(A) Onset of monsoon

(B) Return of polar jet

(D) Rise in daytime temperature

Answer: (C) Southward shift of ITCZ

Explanation: The southward migration of the ITCZ accompanies weakening thermal low pressure over northern India and retreat of summer monsoon circulation. The northwest generally becomes dry first. Later, northeast winds can bring fresh rains to the southeastern coast.

Q115. Who propounded the cloud-instability theory of rainfall?

[MPPSC Assistant Professor Geography Paper II (1 June 2025)]

(A) Halley

(B) Bergeron–Findeisen

(D) Muir

Answer: (B) Bergeron–Findeisen

Explanation: The Bergeron–Findeisen process explains precipitation formation in mixed-phase clouds. Ice crystals grow as vapor deposits upon them in the presence of supercooled droplets, eventually becoming heavy enough to fall and possibly melt into rain.

Q114. Identify the climate: temperature high all year, variable rainfall, short wet season and longer dry season; Sudan and Paraguay are examples.

[UPSC CDS-I General Knowledge (13 April 2025)]

(A) Subtropical steppe climate

(B) Mid-latitude steppe

(D) Tropical wet and dry climate

Answer: (D) Tropical wet and dry climate

Explanation: This describes tropical savanna or wet-and-dry climate. Temperatures remain high, but annual migration of rainfall-producing circulation creates distinct rainy and dry periods. It differs from a fully humid equatorial climate and from the shorter, highly concentrated monsoon pattern.

Q113. Which climate has high temperatures throughout the year, variable rainfall, a short wet season and a long dry season, as in Sudan and Paraguay?

[UPSC CDS-I General Knowledge (13 April 2025)]

(A) Subtropical steppe climate

(B) Mid-latitude steppe climate

(D) Tropical wet-and-dry climate

Answer: (D) Tropical wet-and-dry climate

Explanation: The Sudan-type tropical wet-and-dry climate has year-round warmth with a short rainy summer and a prolonged dry period. It differs from strongly seasonal Indian tropical monsoon climates, where summer rainfall can be heavier and more concentrated.

Q112. Which wind brings the major rainfall in Odisha?

[OSSC CGLRE 2024 Mains General Studies (30 March 2025)]

(A) Northwest monsoon

(B) Southwest monsoon

(D) Eastern monsoon winds

Answer: (B) Southwest monsoon

Explanation: Odisha receives most of its annual rainfall from southwest monsoon circulation, especially Bay of Bengal moisture and monsoon depressions. Winter westerlies mainly influence northwestern India, whereas local cyclones may also bring rain in Odisha after summer.

Q111. Which statement is NOT correct?

[RPSC RAS Preliminary Examination (2 February 2025)]

(A) Chennai rainfall variability exceeds Mumbai variability

(B) Retreating monsoon rains on coastal Tamil Nadu

(D) MONEX was jointly organized by USA and India

(E) Question not attempted

Answer: (D) MONEX was jointly organized by USA and India

Explanation: The cited RAS answer key flags the statement about MONEX organizers as incorrect. The other alternatives concern established Indian rainfall patterns: Tamil Nadu’s retreating-monsoon rains, western disturbances from the Mediterranean and contrasting rainfall variability between the two coastal cities.

Q110. Which districts are arranged in ascending order of average southwest monsoon rainfall?

[RPSC RAS Preliminary Examination (2 February 2025)]

(A) Jalore, Jaipur, Kota

(B) Jaisalmer, Banswara, Rajsamand

(D) Churu, Baran, Bhilwara

(E) Question not attempted

Answer: (A) Jalore, Jaipur, Kota

Explanation: Rainfall generally increases from drier western Rajasthan toward more humid southeastern districts, although local relief also matters. The official key orders Jalore below Jaipur and Jaipur below Kota, matching the west-to-southeast precipitation gradient in the state.

Q109. Which statements about Mediterranean climate are correct?
(1) It receives winter rainfall.
(2) Pressure belts shift southward around northern winter solstice.

[UPPSC PCS Prelims 2024, GS Paper I (22 December 2024)]

(A) Neither 1 nor 2

(B) Only 1

(D) Both 1 and 2

Answer: (D) Both 1 and 2

Explanation: Mediterranean regions usually have dry summers and rainy winters because prevailing wind belts migrate seasonally. In Northern Hemisphere winter, westerly weather systems move equatorward and deliver rainfall. The mechanism is a standard comparison with India’s monsoon climate.

Q108. In Kerala and coastal Karnataka, the pre-monsoon shower is known as ______.

[SSC MTS (11 November 2024, Shift 1)]

(A) Kalbaisakhi

(B) Bardoisila

(D) Blossom shower

Answer: (C) Mango shower

Explanation: Mango showers are late-summer pre-monsoon rains of Kerala and coastal Karnataka. They coincide with fruit maturation and offer relief from heat. Kalbaisakhi is a separate thunderstorm phenomenon associated primarily with eastern India before the full monsoon.

Q107. Pre-monsoon showers in Kerala and coastal Karnataka are locally called what?

[SSC MTS (11 November 2024, Shift 1)]

(A) Kalbaisakhi

(B) Bardoisila

(D) Blossom showers

Answer: (C) Mango showers

Explanation: Mango showers are short-lived pre-monsoon rains, often occurring in April and May along the southwestern peninsula. They are associated with early mango ripening. Kalbaisakhi and Bardoisila instead refer to seasonal storms in eastern and northeastern India.

Q106. Which state lies in the rain shadow of the Arabian Sea branch of the southwest monsoon?

[SSC MTS (11 November 2024, Shift 3)]

(A) Tamil Nadu

(B) Gujarat

(D) Kerala

Answer: (A) Tamil Nadu

Explanation: The Western Ghats intercept moisture from Arabian Sea monsoon winds and produce strong rainfall along their western slopes. Tamil Nadu generally lies on the leeward side of this branch and receives major rainfall later from northeast monsoon winds.

Q105. In northwestern India, the term Mahawat is associated with which season?

[SSC MTS (5 November 2024, Shift 2)]

(A) Post-monsoon rain

(B) Summer rain

(D) Main rainy season

Answer: (C) Winter rainfall

Explanation: Mahawat refers to useful winter showers in parts of northwestern India, often resulting from western disturbances. These systems travel eastward from the Mediterranean region. Their moisture benefits wheat, mustard and other winter-grown rabi crops.

Q104. In which state are pre-monsoon Norwesters locally called Bardoisila?

[SSC MTS (22 October 2024, Shift 1)]

(A) Bihar

(B) Assam

(D) Goa

Answer: (B) Assam

Explanation: In Assam, the severe pre-monsoon storms known as Norwesters are locally termed Bardoisila. They develop in warm weather when unstable air produces strong winds, lightning and rainfall. Bengal uses the related term Kalbaisakhi for such storms.

Q103. Which state or union territory belongs to the areas of inadequate rainfall in India?

[SSC MTS (21 October 2024, Shift 3)]

(A) Andaman and Nicobar Islands

(B) Haryana

(D) Meghalaya

Answer: (C) Ladakh

Explanation: Ladakh is a high-altitude cold desert situated behind formidable Himalayan rain barriers. Its limited moisture supply contrasts with wet Meghalaya and the oceanic islands. The resulting low rainfall and freezing conditions create a distinctive arid mountain environment.

Q102. Which region is categorized among the areas of inadequate rainfall in India?

[SSC MTS (21 October 2024, Shift 3)]

(A) Andaman and Nicobar Islands

(B) Haryana

(D) Meghalaya

Answer: (C) Ladakh

Explanation: Ladakh lies in the rain shadow north of major Himalayan mountain ranges and receives very limited precipitation. The high-altitude cold desert has a much drier climate than Meghalaya or the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, both influenced by moist monsoonal conditions.

Q101. According to advancing monsoon patterns, which city receives rain after 15 June?

[SSC MTS (14 October 2024, Shift 2)]

(A) Jaipur

(B) Imphal

(D) Hyderabad

Answer: (A) Jaipur

Explanation: Jaipur lies farther northwest than the other listed cities, so the southwest monsoon generally reaches it later. Imphal, Bengaluru and Hyderabad are more directly exposed to earlier monsoon progression, although exact onset dates change from year to year.

Q100. Of the following cities, which normally receives advancing monsoon rainfall only after 15 June?

[SSC MTS (14 October 2024, Shift 2)]

(A) Jaipur

(B) Imphal

(D) Hyderabad

Answer: (A) Jaipur

Explanation: Jaipur is in northwestern India, where the southwest monsoon arrives later than in northeastern and southern regions. Imphal, Bengaluru and Hyderabad generally begin receiving monsoon influence earlier. Exact onset dates vary, so the question concerns typical progression.

Q99. Which of these Indian places receives the highest rainfall?

[SSC MTS (9 October 2024, Shift 2)]

(A) Patna

(B) Guwahati

(D) Imphal

Answer: (C) Mawsynram

Explanation: Mawsynram is located on the wet southern slopes of the Khasi Hills in Meghalaya. Bay of Bengal moisture is forced uphill and condenses into exceptionally heavy precipitation. The other cities experience monsoonal rain but far lower annual averages.

Q98. Which of these places receives the highest average rainfall?

[SSC MTS (9 October 2024, Shift 2)]

(A) Patna

(B) Guwahati

(D) Imphal

Answer: (C) Mawsynram

Explanation: Mawsynram in Meghalaya is famed for exceptional average annual rainfall. Moist Bay of Bengal air ascends rapidly along the southern Khasi Hills, generating persistent orographic precipitation. The other cities receive monsoon rain but have much lower typical totals.

Q97. Kaal Baisakhi is chiefly associated with which Indian state?

[SSC MTS (8 October 2024, Shift 3)]

(A) Punjab

(B) Rajasthan

(D) Bihar

Answer: (C) West Bengal

Explanation: Kalbaisakhi describes intense pre-monsoon Norwester thunderstorms that commonly affect West Bengal. They may bring lightning, squalls and local rainfall during the hot season. These storms differ from Loo, the dry summer wind over northern plains.

Q96. Which is NOT a meteorological season recognized in India?

[SSC MTS (1 October 2024, Shift 1)]

(A) Southwest monsoon season

(B) Hot weather season

(D) Cold weather season

Answer: (C) Equatorial season

Explanation: India’s standard meteorological classification consists of cold weather, hot weather, southwest monsoon and post-monsoon periods. Equatorial describes a climatic zone, not a seasonal subdivision of India. Monsoon timing is fundamental to the country’s annual weather calendar.

Q95. Which of the following is NOT a season recognized by Indian meteorology?

[SSC MTS (1 October 2024, Shift 1)]

(A) Southwest monsoon season

(B) Hot weather season

(D) Cold weather season

Answer: (C) Equatorial season

Explanation: India is generally classified into cold weather, hot weather, southwest monsoon and post-monsoon seasons. Equatorial season is not a standard part of that four-season cycle. Regional climates still vary according to rainfall, location and relief.

Q94.

Q93. Regarding Mawsynram, which statements are true? (A) It is one of the wettest places on Earth. (B) It is situated in Meghalaya.

[SSC MTS (30 September 2024, Shift 1)]

(A) Only A

(B) Neither A nor B

(D) Both A and B

Answer: (D) Both A and B

Explanation: Mawsynram is in Meghalaya, on the southern side of the Khasi Hills, and is internationally known for extraordinary average annual rainfall. Moisture-laden winds from the Bay of Bengal are lifted against the hills, producing intense condensation and precipitation.

Q92. In which part of India is a cool mountain climate found?

[SSC MTS (30 September 2024, Shift 1)]

(A) West

(B) South

(D) East

Answer: (C) North

Explanation: The high-elevation Himalayas in northern India have cool mountain climates, with temperatures generally declining as altitude increases. Snowfall and cold winters occur in many parts of the region. Most lowland areas of India experience much warmer seasonal conditions.

Q91. Mawsynram, a place with exceptionally high rainfall, lies on the southern ranges of which hills?

[SSC CGL Tier I (25 September 2024, Shift 3)]

(A) Shevaroy Hills

(B) Mizo Hills

(D) Naga Hills

Answer: (C) Khasi Hills

Explanation: The Khasi Hills of Meghalaya receive very moist monsoon winds arriving from the Bay of Bengal. Forced uplift over the southern escarpment produces exceptionally heavy rain. Mawsynram lies in this landscape, close to the similarly wet town of Cherrapunji.

Q90. Which phenomenon is associated with the retreating monsoon season in India?

[SSC CGL Tier I (25 September 2024, Shift 1)]

(A) Mahawat

(B) Kalbaisakhi

(D) Loo

Answer: (C) October heat

Explanation: October heat occurs when the monsoon retreats but residual moisture and relatively high temperatures create sultry, humid weather. Mahawat is linked with winter rain, Kalbaisakhi with pre-monsoon storms, and Loo with the hot weather season.

Q89. What is the usual duration of the southwest monsoon in India?

[SSC CGL Tier I (23 September 2024, Shift 1)]

(A) 100–120 days

(B) 40–60 days

(D) 50–80 days

Answer: (A) 100–120 days

Explanation: The southwest monsoon supplies widespread Indian rainfall over roughly 100–120 days, predominantly from June through September. The season begins over the southern peninsula and advances inland. Its timing and spatial distribution fluctuate depending on annual atmospheric circulation.

Q88. Which is NOT a major control of surface climate?

[SSC CGL Tier I (23 September 2024, Shift 3)]

(A) Altitude

(B) Latitude

(D) Ocean currents

Answer: (C) Interior of the Earth

Explanation: Latitude governs solar heating, altitude influences air temperature and ocean currents affect coastal climate. The deep interior of Earth is not one of the standard direct controls of surface climate. Weather and climate arise mainly from atmospheric and surface interactions.

Q87. What is the common name for pre-monsoon rains in parts of Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu?

[SSC CGL Tier I (13 September 2024, Shift 3)]

(A) Mango showers

(B) Kalbaisakhi

(D) Orange showers

Answer: (A) Mango showers

Explanation: Mango showers are localized pre-monsoon rainfall events common in the southern peninsula. Their name reflects their association with mango development and ripening. Kalbaisakhi and Norwesters instead characterize vigorous pre-monsoon thunderstorms in eastern India.

Q86. Which of these does NOT directly control the climate of a place in the usual classification?

[SSC CGL Tier I (10 September 2024, Shift 1)]

(A) Relief

(B) Type of soil

(D) Distance from the sea

Answer: (B) Type of soil

Explanation: Relief, geographical location and distance from the sea are established climatic controls because they affect temperature, winds and precipitation. Soil type can influence local land-surface processes but is not usually identified as one of the principal climate-control categories.

Q85. In which region of India does the hot, dry Loo wind generally blow?

[SSC CGL Tier I (9 September 2024, Shift 2)]

(A) West and southwest

(B) North and northwest

(D) South and southwest

Answer: (B) North and northwest

Explanation: Loo blows across the northern and northwestern plains during the hot season, particularly in May and June. Dry conditions, strong solar heating and desert influences intensify it. The monsoon usually weakens these hot, dry wind episodes.

Q84. Into how many climatic regions did Köppen divide India according to this classification?

[WBCS 2023 Mains History Paper III (18 August 2024)]

(A) 6

(B) 7

(D) 10

Answer: (B) 7

Explanation: The cited WBCS answer key gives seven broad climatic regions for India under the classification used in that examination. Köppen categories depend on long-term temperature and precipitation patterns and include humid, monsoonal, semi-arid and mountain climates.

Q83. Which weather condition is NOT normally associated with thunderstorms?

[MPPSC Assistant Professor Geography Paper II (4 August 2024)]

(A) Rainfall

(B) Hailstorms

(D) Heavy snowfall

Answer: (D) Heavy snowfall

Explanation: Thunderstorms typically form in unstable moist air and produce lightning, rain, strong gusts and sometimes hail. Heavy snowfall is not their usual defining feature, although unusual winter thunder-snow can occur. The question asks about the common association.

Q82. Which Madhya Pradesh district among these receives relatively low average annual rainfall?

[MPPSC Assistant Professor General Studies (4 August 2024)]

(A) Jabalpur

(B) Sagar

(D) Damoh

Answer: (C) Bhind

Explanation: Bhind lies in northern Madhya Pradesh and has comparatively drier climatic conditions than the listed central and eastern districts. The amount and reliability of monsoon precipitation decrease in many areas toward the northwestern part of the state.

Q81. Which types of crops are sown at the beginning of the monsoon season?

[SSC CHSL Tier I (8 July 2024, Shift 2)]

(A) Zaid crops

(B) Rabi crops

(D) Vital crops

Answer: (C) Kharif crops

Explanation: Kharif cultivation begins with summer rains, usually in June–July. Rice, maize and cotton are examples. Rabi crops grow mainly after monsoon withdrawal under cooler conditions, while Zaid crops occupy the shorter warm interval between cropping seasons.

Q80. Western disturbances originate from the ______.

[SSC CHSL Tier I (5 July 2024, Shift 4)]

(A) East China Sea

(B) Mediterranean Sea

(D) Red Sea

Answer: (B) Mediterranean Sea

Explanation: Western disturbances are extratropical weather systems linked to the Mediterranean region. Westerly airflow transports them toward the Indian subcontinent, where they bring winter rainfall to northwest India and snowfall to the western Himalayas, benefiting winter crops.

Q79. Which is the first state to receive rain from the southwest monsoon on mainland India?

[SSC CHSL Tier I (4 July 2024, Shift 3)]

(A) Karnataka

(B) Andhra Pradesh

(D) Kerala

Answer: (D) Kerala

Explanation: The southwest monsoon conventionally reaches the Kerala coast around early June before progressing through the subcontinent. Its Arabian Sea branch is intercepted by the Western Ghats. Coastal Karnataka and Goa experience monsoon onset shortly afterwards.

Q78. Which statement about India’s climate is incorrect?

[SSC CHSL Tier I (3 July 2024, Shift 1)]

(A) Monsoon climate is common in south and southeast Asia

(B) Indian climate has tropical and subtropical traits

(D) India has stronger winters than central Asia

Answer: (D) India has stronger winters than central Asia

Explanation: Central Asia experiences far more severe continental winters than most of India. The Himalayas limit invasion of cold northern air, while the surrounding seas moderate coastal temperatures. India nevertheless displays tropical, subtropical and mountain climatic conditions.

Q77. Which types of crops are usually sown after the monsoon season ends?

[SSC CHSL Tier I (2 July 2024, Shift 1)]

(A) Zaid crops

(B) Vital crops

(D) Kharif crops

Answer: (C) Rabi crops

Explanation: Rabi crops are sown after summer monsoon withdrawal, generally October–December, and harvested in spring. Wheat, barley and mustard are typical examples. Stored soil moisture, irrigation and occasional winter showers help sustain their growth.

Q76. Which of the following cities normally faces monsoon rain first?

[SSC CHSL 2023 Tier II (10 January 2024, Shift 1)]

(A) Bhubaneswar

(B) Kolkata

(D) Chennai

Answer: (C) Thiruvananthapuram

Explanation: Thiruvananthapuram lies on the southwest coast of Kerala, close to the earliest mainland onset of the southwest monsoon. The eastward and northward progress of rain-bearing winds brings the season to other listed cities later under normal conditions.

Q75. Which statement about the climate of Madhya Pradesh is NOT correct?

[MPPSC State Services Prelims GS Paper I (17 December 2023)]

(A) Madhya Pradesh has a tropical climate

(B) The state experiences monsoon climate

(D) Tropic of Cancer passes through central Madhya Pradesh

Answer: (C) Temperate climate occurs in its southern part

Explanation: Southern Madhya Pradesh is not generally classified as temperate; it has warmer tropical to subtropical conditions with seasonal monsoon rainfall. The Tropic of Cancer crosses the state, and its rainfall is dominated by southwest monsoon circulation.

Q74. Which weather phenomenon has caused especially destructive rainfall events on the Ladakh plateau?

[WBCS Executive Preliminary (16 December 2023)]

(A) Frontal rainfall

(B) Hailstorms

(D) Convectional rain

Answer: (C) Cloudbursts

Explanation: Cloudbursts involve exceptionally heavy rain falling over a small area in a short time. Steep terrain and fragile drainage systems in Ladakh can magnify destructive flash floods. The severe Leh event of August 2010 illustrates this particular hazard.

Q73. Mawsynram, one of the world’s highest-rainfall locations, lies in which state?

[Bihar Teacher TRE 2.0 Social Science (9 December 2023)]

(A) Assam

(B) Meghalaya

(D) More than one

(E) None

Answer: (B) Meghalaya

Explanation: Mawsynram is in Meghalaya’s East Khasi Hills district. Moisture-laden monsoon winds from the Bay of Bengal encounter its southern hill slopes and rise, generating intense rainfall. Its geographical setting explains its exceptional annual precipitation.

Q72. Mawsynram receives very high rainfall because Bay of Bengal monsoon winds strike which hills?

[SSC CHSL 2023 Tier II (2 November 2023, Shift 1)]

(A) Chota Nagpur Plateau

(B) Khasi

(D) Aravalli

Answer: (B) Khasi

Explanation: The Khasi Hills form a barrier to moist winds from the Bay of Bengal. As the air rises it cools, condenses and produces heavy orographic rain at Mawsynram. This mechanism explains Meghalaya’s remarkable precipitation concentration.

Q71. What chiefly produces the largest share of India’s annual precipitation?

[SSC MTS (14 September 2023, Shift 3)]

(A) West Garo Hills

(B) Southwest monsoon

(D) East Khasi Hills

Answer: (B) Southwest monsoon

Explanation: The southwest monsoon provides most of India’s yearly rainfall, particularly between June and September. Its moisture-laden Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal branches are uplifted by mountains and intensified by low-pressure systems, producing widespread seasonal precipitation.

Q70. Which state among these receives important rainfall during winter?

[SSC MTS (12 September 2023, Shift 2)]

(A) Tamil Nadu

(B) Jharkhand

(D) Rajasthan

Answer: (A) Tamil Nadu

Explanation: Tamil Nadu’s coast receives substantial rainfall from northeast monsoon winds, generally October–December, making its seasonal regime unusual in India. Most other listed states depend mainly on the southwest monsoon, although Rajasthan can receive occasional winter showers.

Q69. Mango showers are mainly associated with which two Indian states?

[SSC MTS (12 September 2023, Shift 3)]

(A) Kerala and Karnataka

(B) Uttar Pradesh and Bihar

(D) Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka

Answer: (A) Kerala and Karnataka

Explanation: Mango showers are localized pre-monsoon rains common in Kerala and Karnataka. They help mangoes ripen and may support other crops before the principal summer monsoon arrives. Their timing and intensity differ from the widespread monsoon season.

Q68. Jet streams are a special form of which winds?

[SSC MTS (12 September 2023, Shift 1)]

(A) Weather fronts

(B) Atmospheric pollution

(D) Periodic water movement

Answer: (C) Geostrophic winds

Explanation: Jet streams are narrow, fast upper-atmosphere wind bands associated with strong horizontal pressure gradients and Earth’s rotation. They are broadly geostrophic in character. Changes in subtropical and tropical jet patterns are relevant to India’s seasonal monsoon circulation.

Q67. Which state first receives southwest monsoon rainfall on mainland India?

[SSC MTS (11 September 2023, Shift 3)]

(A) Himachal Pradesh

(B) Kerala

(D) Rajasthan

Answer: (B) Kerala

Explanation: Kerala’s southwest coast is normally the first mainland region reached by the Arabian Sea branch of the summer monsoon. Rainfall then advances farther north and inland. Onset dates can vary considerably, depending on atmospheric and oceanic conditions.

Q66. Which factor is NOT generally listed as a direct control of India’s climate?

[SSC MTS (11 September 2023, Shift 3)]

(A) Altitude

(B) Longitude

(D) Winds

Answer: (B) Longitude

Explanation: Latitude influences incoming solar radiation, altitude cools the atmosphere, and prevailing winds transport heat and moisture. Longitude itself is not ordinarily a primary climatic control. Relief and distance from the sea also strongly affect India’s regional climate.

Q65. What largely explains the heavy summer rainfall along India’s western coast?

[SSC MTS (11 September 2023, Shift 2)]

(A) Western Ghats

(B) Easterly winds

(D) Eastern Ghats

Answer: (A) Western Ghats

Explanation: The Western Ghats intercept moist winds carried by the Arabian Sea branch of the southwest monsoon. As air rises over their slopes, it cools and condenses, causing heavy orographic rainfall. The plateau beyond the mountains is comparatively drier.

Q64. During which months does the retreating monsoon occur in India?

[SSC MTS (8 September 2023, Shift 1)]

(A) January–February

(B) May–June

(D) March–April

Answer: (C) October–November

Explanation: October and November are the main retreating monsoon months. Summer monsoon winds weaken and withdraw across the country as pressure systems shift southward. At the same time, northeast winds bring important rain to the southeastern coast, especially Tamil Nadu.

Q63. Which Indian state is associated with the pre-monsoon thunderstorms called Kaal Baisakhi?

[SSC MTS (8 September 2023, Shift 3)]

(A) West Bengal

(B) Karnataka

(D) Haryana

Answer: (A) West Bengal

Explanation: Kalbaisakhi storms occur in West Bengal during March–May, before sustained summer monsoon rains arrive. These Norwesters can produce thunder, lightning, heavy downpours and strong gusts. They are geographically different from the dry Loo winds of northern India.

Q62. In Indian climatology, what is Mahawat?

[SSC MTS (6 September 2023, Shift 2)]

(A) Winter cold wave

(B) Summer monsoon cloudburst

(D) Hot dry summer winds

Answer: (C) Cyclonic winter rainfall

Explanation: Mahawat refers to winter showers in the northwestern Indian plains, commonly associated with eastward-moving western disturbances. The rain is agriculturally important because it supplies moisture to wheat and other rabi crops during their growing season.

Q61. Which climatic region of the world is typically identified by a seasonal reversal of winds?

[UPSC NDA-II General Ability (3 September 2023)]

(A) British type climate

(B) Mediterranean climate

(D) Monsoon climate

Answer: (D) Monsoon climate

Explanation: Monsoon climates exhibit a marked seasonal change in prevailing wind direction. Summer winds generally bring marine moisture inland, while winter circulation is more often directed from land toward sea. This reversal produces pronounced wet and dry seasons.

Q60. Which crop generally benefits from rainfall caused by western disturbances in India?

[UPSC NDA-II General Ability (3 September 2023)]

(A) Rice

(B) Wheat

(D) Cotton

Answer: (B) Wheat

Explanation: Western disturbances bring valuable rain to northern and northwestern India during winter. This moisture helps the growth of wheat, a major rabi crop. Rice and cotton largely depend on warmer growing seasons and other rainfall or irrigation patterns.

Q59. Which location gets the least monsoon-season rainfall among the following?

[SSC MTS (1 September 2023, Shift 3)]

(A) Kerala

(B) Assam

(D) Meghalaya

Answer: (C) Leh

Explanation: Leh is in the Ladakh cold desert, sheltered from rain-bearing winds by major Himalayan mountain barriers. Its rainfall is consequently much lower than in Kerala, Assam or Meghalaya. The latter locations lie within regions strongly affected by moisture-rich monsoon circulation.

Q58. Which state usually has little difference between daytime and nighttime temperatures?

[SSC MTS (1 September 2023, Shift 2)]

(A) Rajasthan

(B) Bihar

(D) Punjab

Answer: (C) Kerala

Explanation: Kerala’s maritime position near the Arabian Sea moderates daily temperatures because water warms and cools slowly. Its high humidity also reduces nighttime cooling. Arid inland regions such as Rajasthan generally exhibit larger day–night temperature differences.

Q57. What is the phenomenon called when rain fails for one or more weeks during the southwest monsoon period?

[SSC CHSL Tier I (14 August 2023, Shift 2)]

(A) Withdrawal of monsoon

(B) Break in monsoon

(D) Monsoon depression

Answer: (B) Break in monsoon

Explanation: A break in the monsoon describes a temporary lull in rainfall within the rainy season. Changes in monsoon trough position and convection can suppress precipitation over parts of India. A monsoon depression usually supports rain rather than describing the lull.

Q56. Which statement correctly describes the Indian monsoon and the ITCZ?

[SSC CHSL Tier I (10 August 2023, Shift 1)]

(A) Shifts in ITCZ position influence India’s monsoon

(B) ITCZ lies over Indo-Gangetic plains in February

(D) ITCZ does not affect Indian monsoon

Answer: (A) Shifts in ITCZ position influence India’s monsoon

Explanation: The Intertropical Convergence Zone migrates with seasonal solar heating and helps locate the monsoon trough. When it shifts northward, low pressure over India favors monsoon circulation. Its movement is therefore an important control on rain-bearing winds.

Q55. In which direction do cross-equatorial southeast trade winds blow over India in southwest monsoon season?

[SSC CHSL Tier I (8 August 2023, Shift 4)]

(A) Southeasterly

(B) Northwesterly

(D) Northeasterly

Answer: (C) Southwesterly

Explanation: Southeast trade winds cross the Equator and are deflected to the right in the Northern Hemisphere through the Coriolis effect. They therefore become southwesterly over India and carry moisture from adjoining ocean basins inland during summer.

Q54. Which is NOT a major factor influencing the climate of India?

[SSC CHSL Tier I (4 August 2023, Shift 2)]

(A) Himalayan Mountains

(B) Sahara Desert

(D) Western Ghats

Answer: (B) Sahara Desert

Explanation: The Himalayas, Indian Ocean and Western Ghats directly influence India’s winds, temperature and precipitation. The distant Sahara Desert is not ordinarily counted among the principal local climatic controls. Topography and ocean proximity are especially significant.

Q53. Which state receives rainfall during the retreating monsoon?

[SSC CHSL Tier I (3 August 2023, Shift 2)]

(A) Madhya Pradesh

(B) Gujarat

(D) Tamil Nadu

Answer: (D) Tamil Nadu

Explanation: Tamil Nadu receives a large portion of its annual rain from northeast winds during and after southwest monsoon withdrawal. The winds gather moisture over the Bay of Bengal. The other listed states generally rely more heavily on summer monsoon rains.

Q52. What is the expected Indian monsoon outcome when the pressure difference at Tahiti is negative, according to the Southern Oscillation relationship?

[SSC CGL Tier I (27 July 2023, Shift 3)]

(A) Above-average late monsoon

(B) Drought

(D) Above-average and early monsoon

Answer: (C) Below-average and late monsoon

Explanation: The pressure relationship between Tahiti and Darwin reflects the Southern Oscillation. An unfavorable pressure pattern can weaken the Walker circulation supporting India’s summer monsoon, increasing the risk of deficient or delayed rainfall. The published examination key selects option C.

Q51. Which statement correctly describes the daily temperature range of coastal Kerala?

[SSC CGL Tier I (26 July 2023, Shift 4)]

(A) Coastal Kerala has a small day–night temperature difference

(B) Rajasthan has a very small day–night difference

(D) Central India has heavy rain throughout the year

Answer: (A) Coastal Kerala has a small day–night temperature difference

Explanation: Kerala’s coastal climate is moderated by the adjacent Arabian Sea, which heats and cools more slowly than land. As a result, day and night temperatures tend to differ less than those of inland deserts, where temperature swings are greater.

Q50. Norwesters are powerful evening thunderstorms typically observed in which regions?

[SSC CGL Tier I (26 July 2023, Shift 2)]

(A) Bengal and Assam

(B) Punjab and Haryana

(D) Telangana and Maharashtra

Answer: (A) Bengal and Assam

Explanation: Norwesters, called Kalbaisakhi in Bengal, occur mainly during the pre-monsoon hot season in eastern and northeastern India. Severe squalls, lightning and short bursts of heavy rain are characteristic. They can damage property while providing useful moisture to crops.

Q49. What is meant by continentality in climate?

[SSC CGL Tier I (25 July 2023, Shift 2)]

(A) Very hot winter and very cold summer

(B) Very hot summer and very cold winter

(D) Cold winter but no hot summer

Answer: (B) Very hot summer and very cold winter

Explanation: Continentality describes the greater seasonal temperature contrast of inland regions, which do not benefit from the thermal moderation of nearby seas. Such places often have hot summers and cold winters. Coastal areas normally show a smaller annual temperature range.

Q48. In Köppen’s climate classification, the code E indicates which climatic category?

[SSC CGL Tier I (24 July 2023, Shift 4)]

(A) Tropical savanna

(B) Hot desert

(D) Polar type

Answer: (D) Polar type

Explanation: Köppen uses the group E for polar climates, where low temperatures severely constrain vegetation. India’s high Himalayan elevations exhibit very cold alpine conditions, while tropical and desert climates use different codes based on temperature and precipitation.

Q47. Why do most parts of India receive rainfall between June and September?

[SSC CGL Tier I (21 July 2023, Shift 1)]

(A) South-West monsoon

(B) Very cold nights

(D) North-East monsoon

Answer: (A) South-West monsoon

Explanation: Southwest monsoon winds carry moisture from the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal across the subcontinent during June–September. Summer heating and the monsoon trough help sustain their inflow. The northeast monsoon is important later, especially in Tamil Nadu.

Q46. Which instrument sends electromagnetic pulses into the atmosphere to detect precipitation intensity, speed and type?

[SSC CGL Tier I (21 July 2023, Shift 3)]

(A) Barometer

(B) Spectral pyranometer

(D) Doppler weather radar

Answer: (D) Doppler weather radar

Explanation: Doppler weather radar transmits electromagnetic pulses and analyzes returned signals from raindrops, snow or hail. Changes in the echoes reveal precipitation movement and intensity. A barometer measures atmospheric pressure, whereas a pyranometer measures incoming solar radiation.

Q45. Where do the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal branches of the summer monsoon merge?

[SSC CGL Tier I (20 July 2023, Shift 2)]

(A) South of Peninsula

(B) Coromandel Coast

(D) North of Deccan Plateau

Answer: (C) North-western Ganga Plains

Explanation: After following different trajectories, the two major monsoon branches converge toward the northwestern part of the Ganga plains. Moisture-bearing winds then interact with local pressure systems and relief. This is part of the overall southwest monsoon circulation.

Q44. Which local pre-monsoon rain helps coffee flowers bloom in Karnataka?

[SSC CGL Tier I (20 July 2023, Shift 3)]

(A) Norwesters

(B) Loo

(D) Blossom shower

Answer: (D) Blossom shower

Explanation: Blossom showers are early seasonal rains that stimulate flowering in coffee plantations of Karnataka. Their timing matters for coffee production. Mango showers refer to pre-monsoon rain associated with fruit ripening, while Loo is a hot and dry summer wind.

Q43. According to the traditional Indian calendar, Hemanta occurs in which months?

[SSC CGL Tier I (20 July 2023, Shift 1)]

(A) Shravana–Bhadra

(B) Chaitra–Vaishakha

(D) Margashirsha–Pausha

Answer: (D) Margashirsha–Pausha

Explanation: Hemanta represents the early or pre-winter period in the traditional six-season cycle and corresponds broadly to November–January. The months Margashirsha and Pausha fall in this season. This calendar division is separate from the four meteorological seasons.

Q42. Which climatic region and place pairing is incorrectly matched?

[SSC CGL Tier I (18 July 2023, Shift 4)]

(A) Mountain climate—Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand

(B) Tropical monsoon—Western Ghats, Malabar Coast, southern Assam

(D) Hot desert—Rajasthan and parts of Gujarat

Answer: (A) Mountain climate—Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand

Explanation: Mountain climates are associated with high-elevation relief, particularly the Himalayas, rather than the plains of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Jharkhand. The other options describe recognizable monsoon, semi-arid and desert climatic zones within India.

Q41. What type of Indian climate does Köppen’s code Cwg denote?

[SSC CGL Tier I (18 July 2023, Shift 2)]

(A) Monsoon with dry winter

(B) Semi-arid steppe

(D) Monsoon with dry summer

Answer: (A) Monsoon with dry winter

Explanation: In the climatic coding used in the examination, Cwg refers to a monsoon-influenced climate with dry winters. Köppen classifications group climates by seasonal temperature and rainfall patterns. This category differs from dry steppe or very cold polar environments.

Q40. Which group of states receives rain from the northeast monsoon during October–December?

[SSC CGL Tier I (17 July 2023, Shift 1)]

(A) Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Andhra Pradesh

(B) Punjab, Haryana and Madhya Pradesh

(D) Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal

Answer: (A) Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Andhra Pradesh

Explanation: Northeast monsoon circulation is important for Tamil Nadu and adjoining southeastern peninsular areas, with additional rainfall in parts of Kerala and Andhra Pradesh. The wind picks up moisture over the Bay of Bengal during the retreating season.

Q39. Withdrawal of the monsoon begins in ______ Indian states by early September.

[SSC CHSL 2022 Tier I (16 March 2023, Shift 4)]

(A) Southeastern

(B) Northeastern

(D) Northwestern

Answer: (D) Northwestern

Explanation: The southwest monsoon generally starts withdrawing from northwestern India before retreating from other regions. Seasonal cooling weakens the low-pressure trough over northern plains. By late autumn, much of India is under drier northeasterly flow.

Q38. Which season in India is called the transition season?

[SSC CHSL 2022 Tier I (14 March 2023, Shift 2)]

(A) Retreating Monsoon

(B) Advancing Monsoon

(D) Hot Weather

Answer: (A) Retreating Monsoon

Explanation: Retreating monsoon marks the seasonal transition from summer monsoon rains toward winter weather. Southwest winds weaken, skies clear and temperatures gradually change. Meanwhile, the southeast coast may receive fresh rainfall from northeast monsoon circulation.

Q37. Which monsoon causes torrential rain on Tamil Nadu coast and parts of southern Andhra Pradesh, southeast Karnataka and Kerala in October–November?

[SSC CHSL memory-based (13 March 2023)]

(A) Southwest monsoon

(B) Northeast monsoon

(D) Northwest monsoon

Answer: (B) Northeast monsoon

Explanation: Northeast monsoon winds gather moisture while passing over the Bay of Bengal and bring important post-summer rainfall to southeastern India. This season differs from the June–September southwest monsoon that supplies most of the country’s annual precipitation.

Q36. Mawsynram in the ______ part of the Khasi Hills receives exceptionally high average rainfall.

[SSC GD Constable 2022 (13 February 2023, Shift 1)]

(A) Southern

(B) Northern

(D) Eastern

Answer: (A) Southern

Explanation: Mawsynram is located on the southern side of the Khasi Hills facing moisture-laden Bay of Bengal winds. Orographic uplift produces extensive condensation and rainfall there. Its position relative to the hill slopes is the crucial geographical factor.

Q35. The climate of India is described broadly as the ______ type.

[SSC GD Constable 2022 (7 February 2023, Shift 4)]

(A) Monsoon

(B) Cool

(D) Arid

Answer: (A) Monsoon

Explanation: Seasonal reversal of prevailing winds produces marked wet and dry periods over much of India, making monsoon the broad climatic description. Regional variation remains strong: Rajasthan is arid, coasts are humid, and the Himalayas have cold mountain climates.

Q34. Which mountain range obstructs southwest monsoon winds coming from the Arabian Sea while they flow toward the ITCZ?

[SSC GD Constable 2022 (6 February 2023, Shift 4)]

(A) Great Himalayan Range

(B) Western Ghats

(D) Eastern Ghats

Answer: (B) Western Ghats

Explanation: The Arabian Sea branch encounters the steep western slopes of the Western Ghats. Forced ascent cools the moist winds and causes orographic rain on the coastal side. Interior plateau districts lie in the comparatively drier rain-shadow zone.

Q33. Approximately how many days does the Indian monsoon last, from early June to mid-September?

[SSC GD Constable 2022 (2 February 2023, Shift 4)]

(A) 200–240 days

(B) 100–120 days

(D) 260–280 days

Answer: (B) 100–120 days

Explanation: The main southwest monsoon season typically lasts around 100–120 days across much of India. It begins over Kerala in early June and generally lasts until September. Its progress and rainfall amounts differ considerably across regions and from year to year.

Q32. What are violent summer thunderstorms in West Bengal called?

[SSC GD Constable 2022 (24 January 2023, Shift 4)]

(A) Loo

(B) Kalbaisakhi

(D) Mango showers

Answer: (B) Kalbaisakhi

Explanation: Kalbaisakhi, also called Norwesters, consists of intense pre-monsoon thunderstorms common in West Bengal and nearby eastern areas. They can bring strong gusts, lightning and heavy local showers. Loo is instead the hot, dry wind of northern India.

Q31. As the Sun shifts southward during October–November, which trough over India’s northern plains weakens?

[SSC GD Constable 2022 (10 January 2023, Shift 4)]

(A) Upper-level trough

(B) Monsoon trough

(D) Inverted trough

Answer: (B) Monsoon trough

Explanation: The monsoon trough is a seasonal low-pressure zone over northern India. As land cools in autumn, it becomes weaker and the southwest monsoon retreats. A high-pressure pattern then becomes more dominant across the northern plains.

Q30. The Tamil Nadu coast receives a large portion of its rainfall during which months?

[SSC GD Constable 2022 (10 January 2023, Shift 2)]

(A) April and May

(B) October and November

(D) August and September

Answer: (B) October and November

Explanation: The northeast or retreating monsoon is especially important to coastal Tamil Nadu in October and November. Air flowing across the Bay of Bengal carries moisture ashore. This produces a rainfall calendar unlike most of the Indian mainland.

Q29. Delhi usually receives monsoon showers from which branch by around the end of June?

[RRB Group D (30 September 2022, Shift 3)]

(A) Mediterranean region branch

(B) Bay of Bengal branch

(D) Arabian Sea branch

Answer: (B) Bay of Bengal branch

Explanation: The Bay of Bengal branch moves northwest across northern India, often contributing to the arrival of rain in Delhi near the end of June. Actual onset dates vary annually. The Arabian Sea branch influences the west coast and interior separately.

Q28. In which season do the hot and dry afternoon winds called Loo blow?

[RRB Group D (27 September 2022, Shift 2)]

(A) Retreating monsoon

(B) Hot weather season

(D) Southwest monsoon season

Answer: (B) Hot weather season

Explanation: Loo is a scorching, dry wind that occurs during the pre-monsoon summer over northern and northwestern India. It often blows in the afternoons of May and June. The onset of moisture-bearing monsoon winds normally reduces its frequency.

Q27. Pre-monsoon showers in Kerala and Karnataka near the end of the summer season are known as what?

[RRB Group D (26 September 2022, Shift 1)]

(A) Orange showers

(B) Papaya showers

(D) Grape showers

Answer: (C) Mango showers

Explanation: Mango showers are local pre-monsoon rains that occur in parts of Kerala and Karnataka. Their timing may help early mango ripening and support crops. They differ from the widespread sustained rainfall following the arrival of the southwest monsoon.

Q26. The period beginning when monsoon rainfall suddenly increases, called its burst, generally lasts from which months in India?

[RRB Group D (17 September 2022, Shift 2)]

(A) July to early September

(B) Early June to mid-September

(D) Early July to mid-August

Answer: (B) Early June to mid-September

Explanation: The southwest monsoon normally advances onto the Indian mainland in early June and supplies major rainfall through much of September. The term burst refers to its sudden initial increase in precipitation. Timing and duration vary by place and year.

Q25. What is the general climatic type of the Indian subcontinent?

[RRB Group D (9 September 2022, Shift 1)]

(A) Mediterranean

(B) Temperate monsoon

(D) Tropical monsoon

Answer: (D) Tropical monsoon

Explanation: The Indian subcontinent broadly follows a tropical monsoon pattern marked by summer rainfall and a comparatively drier winter. Temperature, altitude and distance from the sea create regional variations, including arid Rajasthan and the colder Himalayan highlands.

Q24. Which state among these received the greatest share of its rainfall from the northeast monsoon in 2021?

[RRB Group D (8 September 2022, Shift 3)]

(A) Uttar Pradesh

(B) Haryana

(D) Gujarat

Answer: (C) Tamil Nadu

Explanation: Tamil Nadu is particularly dependent on northeast monsoon rains that arrive after the main southwest monsoon begins withdrawing. The moist winds cross the Bay of Bengal and bring rain to the southeastern coast, unlike most northern states.

Q23. Which Indian state receives winter-season rain due to the retreating monsoon?

[RRB Group D (30 August 2022, Shift 1)]

(A) Tamil Nadu

(B) West Bengal

(D) Gujarat

Answer: (A) Tamil Nadu

Explanation: Retreating monsoon winds, generally northeasterly, gather moisture over the Bay of Bengal before reaching Tamil Nadu. This produces a significant share of the state’s annual precipitation in October–December, contrasting with the summer-dominated rains of much of India.

Q22. In a normal monsoon year, when do monsoon winds reach Punjab, western Uttar Pradesh and Haryana?

[RRB Group D (25 August 2022, Shift 2)]

(A) First week of May

(B) First week of June

(D) First week of July

Answer: (D) First week of July

Explanation: Monsoon winds normally reach Punjab, Haryana and western Uttar Pradesh around the first week of July. The advance begins in the south and proceeds northward. Actual dates differ from year to year, depending on weather systems and circulation.

Q21. Which region is known to receive the greatest rainfall from southwest monsoon winds among these?

[RRB Group D (23 August 2022, Shift 3)]

(A) Western Ghats

(B) Gangetic Plains

(D) Eastern Ghats

Answer: (A) Western Ghats

Explanation: The windward Western Ghats receive very heavy southwest monsoon rain when humid Arabian Sea air rises over the mountain barrier. The leeward Deccan interior is much drier. This is a classic example of orographic rainfall and rain shadow.

Q20. Which Indian region receives particularly heavy rainfall from the southwest monsoon?

[RRB Group D (23 August 2022, Shift 3)]

(A) Western Ghats

(B) Gangetic Plains

(D) Eastern Ghats

Answer: (A) Western Ghats

Explanation: The Western Ghats force moisture-laden Arabian Sea monsoon winds to rise rapidly, resulting in heavy orographic rain along their western slopes. Much of the interior Deccan Plateau receives less precipitation after the air crosses the mountain barrier.

Q19. Blossom showers are associated with which state?

[RSMSSB Lab Assistant (30 June 2022)]

(A) Kerala

(B) Tamil Nadu

(D) West Bengal

Answer: (A) Kerala

Explanation: Blossom showers are pre-monsoon rains especially associated with Kerala and adjacent southwestern India. They help flowering and growth of crops such as coffee. They occur before the full southwest monsoon and differ from eastern Kalbaisakhi thunderstorms.

Q18. Under Thornthwaite’s classification, what climate class includes Jaisalmer?

[RSMSSB Lab Assistant (28 June 2022)]

(A) DB’w

(B) EA’d

(D) DA’w

Answer: (B) EA’d

Explanation: Jaisalmer lies within the Thar Desert and has a strongly arid climatic regime, with low annual rainfall and a high moisture deficit. The cited Thornthwaite classification places it in EA’d rather than the comparatively more humid alternatives.

Q17. Which claim about Madhya Pradesh climate is incorrect?

[MPPSC State Service Prelims 2021 GS Paper I (19 June 2022)]

(A) Tropic of Cancer crosses the state

(B) Gwalior has hot subtropical summers

(D) Only about 50% of state rainfall comes from southwest monsoon

Answer: (D) Only about 50% of state rainfall comes from southwest monsoon

Explanation: Madhya Pradesh depends much more heavily than fifty percent on southwest monsoon rainfall. Its central location exposes it to influences of both Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal branches. The Tropic of Cancer and continental location also shape temperatures.

Q16. Which system causes winter rainfall in northwestern India?

[UPPSC PCS General Studies Paper I (24 October 2021)]

(A) Retreating depression

(B) Cyclonic depression

(D) Southwest monsoon

Answer: (C) Western disturbances

Explanation: Western disturbances are eastward-moving extratropical systems that generate winter rain in Punjab, Haryana and surrounding areas. They also bring snowfall to western Himalayan ranges. The southwest monsoon instead accounts for the principal summer rainy season.

Q15. In which city is August rainfall variability likely to be the greatest?

[WBCS Preliminary (22 August 2021)]

(A) Kolkata

(B) Ranchi

(D) Lucknow

Answer: (C) Jodhpur

Explanation: Jodhpur lies in arid western Rajasthan, where summer rainfall totals are lower and more erratic than in humid eastern cities. Relative rainfall variability is generally larger where average precipitation is scanty and the monsoon is less reliable.

Q14. Monsoon rainfall in India is mainly brought by winds from which direction?

[UPPSC RO/ARO General Studies (20 September 2020)]

(A) South-West

(B) South-East

(D) North-West

Answer: (A) South-West

Explanation: The summer rain-bearing monsoon consists mainly of southwesterly winds crossing from ocean toward land. They arrive from the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal branches. Northeasterly winds are associated chiefly with winter and the retreating monsoon.

Q13. Which wind causes most rainfall in Chhattisgarh?

[CGPSC Civil Service Prelims GS Paper I (2020)]

(A) Northwest monsoon

(B) Southwest monsoon

(D) Southeast monsoon

Answer: (B) Southwest monsoon

Explanation: Chhattisgarh receives most of its rainfall from the southwest monsoon during summer. Bay of Bengal moisture and inland monsoon systems strongly influence the region. Northeast monsoon winds chiefly support post-summer rainfall along southeastern coastal India.

Q12. Regarding Ocean Mean Temperature (OMT), which statements are correct?
(1) It is measured to a 26°C isotherm depth of 129 m in the southwestern Indian Ocean during January–March.
(2) January–March OMT helps assess whether monsoon rainfall will exceed or fall below the long-term mean.

[UPSC Civil Services Prelims GS Paper I (2020)]

(A) Statement 1 only

(B) Statement 2 only

(D) Neither statement

Answer: (B) Statement 2 only

Explanation: Ocean Mean Temperature reflects upper-ocean thermal conditions relevant to predicting monsoon variability. Statement 1 gives an incorrect fixed depth; the 26°C isotherm is not at 129 metres as claimed. Statement 2 correctly identifies OMT as a rainfall predictor.

Q11. Winter rain caused by western disturbances across northwest India generally decreases from which direction to which?

[UPPSC Civil Service Prelims Paper I (2019)]

(A) East to West

(B) West to East

(D) South to North

Answer: (B) West to East

Explanation: Western disturbances generally approach the subcontinent from the west and lose moisture as they travel eastward across the plains. Accordingly, their winter precipitation commonly decreases from west to east. The rain is distinct from the summer monsoon.

Q10. South Arcot and Ramanathapuram receive over half of their annual rainfall from which source?

[UPSC CDS General Knowledge (18 November 2018)]

(A) Southwest monsoon

(B) Northeast monsoon

(D) Western disturbances

Answer: (B) Northeast monsoon

Explanation: Both locations are in Tamil Nadu, where the northeast monsoon contributes heavily to annual rain, especially during October–December. Moisture-bearing northeasterlies cross the Bay of Bengal and strike the east coast after summer monsoon withdrawal.

Q9. Which place has the highest average rainfall among these?

[MPPSC Forest Service Mains GS (2018)]

(A) Mawsynram

(B) Cherrapunji

(D) Amarkantak

Answer: (A) Mawsynram

Explanation: Mawsynram in Meghalaya receives extraordinary average annual rain because Bay of Bengal monsoon air rises against the Khasi Hills. Cherrapunji is another exceptionally wet nearby place, but Mawsynram leads the options according to the published examination answer.

Q8. The climate of India is broadly described as which type?

[SSC MTS (21 October 2017, Shift 3)]

(A) Dry

(B) Monsoon

(D) Humid

Answer: (B) Monsoon

Explanation: India is characterized by seasonal reversal of winds, producing the principal summer monsoon and a contrasting cooler season. Although many local climates occur, such as deserts and alpine mountains, the dominant national pattern is monsoonal.

Q7. The summer monsoon normally arrives in South Bengal during which dates?

[WBCS Prelims (2017)]

(A) 1–5 June

(B) 5–10 June

(D) 15–20 June

Answer: (C) 10–15 June

Explanation: South Bengal usually receives monsoon onset around mid-June, influenced by the Bay of Bengal branch. The cited WBCS examination accepts 10–15 June as the normal interval. Actual timing varies with yearly atmospheric conditions.

Q6. With reference to the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD), which statements are correct?
(1) IOD measures a sea-surface-temperature difference between the western Indian Ocean and eastern Pacific Ocean.
(2) IOD can influence the effect of El Niño on the Indian monsoon.

[UPSC Civil Services Prelims GS Paper I (2017)]

(A) Statement 1 only

(B) Statement 2 only

(D) Neither statement

Answer: (B) Statement 2 only

Explanation: The Indian Ocean Dipole contrasts sea surface temperatures in the western and eastern Indian Ocean, not the Pacific. Its positive or negative phase can modify the effects of El Niño on India’s rainfall, so only the second statement is correct.

Q5. Which state among the options has the largest year-to-year variation in rainfall?

[WBCS Preliminary (2017)]

(A) Meghalaya

(B) Kerala

(D) West Bengal

Answer: (C) Rajasthan

Explanation: Rajasthan has extensive arid and semi-arid areas, where monsoon rainfall can vary dramatically between years. Wetter regions such as Meghalaya and Kerala generally receive more dependable seasonal precipitation, producing lower relative variation in annual rainfall totals.

Q4. Which region is comparatively little affected by the Arabian Sea branch of the monsoon?

[CGPSC Prelims General Studies (2016)]

(A) Western Ghats

(B) Deccan Plateau

(D) Chhattisgarh Basin

(E) None of these

Answer: (D) Chhattisgarh Basin

Explanation: The Chhattisgarh Basin lies far inland and is influenced particularly by monsoon currents and depressions from the Bay of Bengal. The Arabian Sea branch has strongest direct effects along the west coast and on the windward Western Ghats.

Q3. West Bengal receives most of its rainfall mainly from which monsoon current?

[WBCS Preliminary (2015)]

(A) Southwest monsoon generally

(B) Bay of Bengal branch of Indian monsoon

(D) Arabian Sea branch

Answer: (B) Bay of Bengal branch of Indian monsoon

Explanation: The Bay of Bengal branch carries abundant moisture into West Bengal during the summer monsoon. Regional depressions and uplift near the Himalayan foothills strongly influence the state’s rainfall. The Arabian Sea branch is more important to India’s western coast.

Q2. Seasonal reversal of winds is the typical characteristic of which climate?

[UPSC Civil Services Prelims GS Paper I (24 August 2014)]

(A) Equatorial climate

(B) Mediterranean climate

(D) All of these

Answer: (C) Monsoon climate

Explanation: A monsoon climate has a characteristic seasonal shift of prevailing winds linked to changing land–sea temperature and pressure contrasts. This often produces wet summers and drier winters. Equatorial and Mediterranean climates do not have the same defining wind reversal.

Q1. Regarding La Niña and El Niño, which statements are correct?
(1) La Niña involves unusually cold equatorial Indian Ocean temperatures, whereas El Niño involves unusually warm equatorial Pacific temperatures.
(2) El Niño can harm India’s southwest monsoon, but La Niña has no monsoon effect.

[UPSC Civil Services Prelims Paper I (2011)]

(A) Statement 1 only

(B) Statement 2 only

(D) Neither statement

Answer: (D) Neither statement

Explanation: Both events are linked to temperature anomalies in the equatorial Pacific, not the Indian Ocean as the first statement claims. La Niña can also affect Indian rainfall, often favoring stronger summer monsoon conditions, so the second statement is incorrect.

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