Western Disturbances are low-pressure depressions that occur primarily in northern India during the winter. They are extratropical storms that originate in the Mediterranean region and bring heavy winter rain and snow to the northwestern parts of the Indian subcontinent.
Impact of western disturbances on the Indian weather systems:
- It is estimated that western disturbances bring 5-10% of India’s total annual rainfall. They are responsible for the majority of the winter and pre-monsoon season rainfall in North-West India.
- Western disturbances are typically accompanied by cloudy skies, higher nighttime temperatures, and unusual rain.
- Wheat is one of the most important crops that contributes to India’s food security. Precipitation from western disturbances is crucial for the development of Rabi crops, including wheat.
- Strong western disturbances, on the other hand, bring excessive precipitation, which can result in crop damage, landslides, floods, and avalanches.
- However, in north India, weak western disturbances are linked to water shortages and crop failure.
Conclusion of Western Disturbances
Western disturbances are commonly regarded as a positive and beneficial phenomenon. However, as a result of climate change, they have caused disasters such as cloud bursts and hailstorms.
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