Climate of Rajasthan
Like its varying topography, Rajasthan has varying climate. The weather or climate of the Rajasthan can be broadly classified into four distinct seasons. They are – Pre-monsoon, which is the
hot season preceding the monsoon and extends from April to June, the Monsoon that occurs in the month of June in the eastern region and mid- July in the western arid regions, the Post-monsoon that commences from mid-September and continues till November and the Winter that extends from December to March, January being the coldest month of the year. The Average temperature in winter ranges from 8° to 28° C (46° to 82° F) and in summer the average temperature range from 25° to 46° C (77° to 115° F).
Broadly speaking, Rajasthan has a tropical desert climate. It is extremely cold from October to February while the scorching sun tortures the land from March to September. Due to scanty rainfall, Women can be seen carrying water for miles to meet their daily needs during summers. To the south of Rajasthan, River Luni and River Chambal River and its tributaries bless the people with their water and form an alluvial basin in Kota.
Temperature
There are distinct temperature range variations diurnal and seasonally throughout the state, revealing the most typical phenomenon of the warm-dry continental climate. The summer begins in the month of March while the temperature keeps rising progressively through April, May and June. West of Rajasthan and the eastern side of Aravalli Range, in the region of Bikaner, Phalodi, Jaisalmer and Barmer, the maximum daily temperature hovers around 40°C to 45°C. Sometimes, it even reaches as high a 49°C during the summer months. Nights of summers see a considerable temperature fall with a minimum daily temperature around 20°C to 29°C. However, Udaipur and Mount Abu, have a pleasanter climate in summers with a relatively lower daily maximum temperature that reaches 38°C and 31.5°C, respectively. The daily minimum temperature at nights for these two stations hovers around 25°C and 22°C, respectively. The major portion of the state tat consists of the arid west and the semi-arid mid-west has an average maximum of 45°C in June.
January is the coldest month in the stare of Rajasthan. The minimum temperatures sometimes fall to -2°C in the night at places like Sikar, Churu, Pilani and Bikaner. The sandy land gets even colder with occasional secondary Western winds that cross the western, northern and eastern Rajasthan during winter months, and even cause Light rainfall and chilly winds can be experienced during this period. Most of the Rajasthan, except the southeast Rajasthan comprising of Kota, Bundi and Baran and western Barmer have an average temperature of more than 10°C. Due to the cold western winds, the whole of Rajasthan sometimes come under the spell of the cold wave for 2 to 5 days during winters.
Rainfall
Rajasthan being the desert area, its climate varies mostly from arid to sub-humid. To the west of the Aravallis, the climate is marked by low rainfall, extreme diurnal and annual temperature, low humidity and high velocity winds. In the east of the Aravallis, the climate is semi-arid to sub-humid
marked by lower wind velocity and higher humidity and better rainfall. The annual rainfall in the state differs significantly. The average annual rainfall ranges from less than 10 cm in north-west part of Jaisalmer region (lowest in the state), to 20 to 30 cm in the regions of Ganganagar, Bikaner and Barmer, 30 to 40 cm in the regions of Nagaur, Jodhpur, Churu and Jalor and more than 40 cm in the regions of Sikar, Jhunjhunun, Pali and the western fringes of the Aravalli range. The more fortunate eastern side of the Aravallis see 55 cm rainfall in Ajmer to 102 cm rainfall in Jhalawar. Mount Abu in the Sirohi district in the southwest region receives the highest rainfall in the state (163.8 cm). The sout
hwest monsoon begins in the last week of June in the eastern parts and may last till mid-September. There are occasionally pre-monsoon showers in mid-June while post-monsoon rains may occur in October. Winters may also receive a little rainfall with the passing of western distribution over the region. However, Rajasthan receives most of its monthly rainfall during July and August.
During the south-west monsoon period extending from June to September the state receives about 90% of the total rainfall. The cold weather period (January and February) receive the Remaining portion of rainfall which occurs in association with the local convective activity. There is a wide variation in the mean annual rainfall over Rajasthan as the extreme western parts of Jaisalmer district receive rainfall less than 100mm in contrast to more than 900mm in the eastern parts of Jhalawar and Banswara. The lowest recorded annual rainfall in the past 100 years i.e. between 1900 and 2010 was 24 mm in the western Rajasthan and whereas it was never below 120 mm in the eastern Rajasthan
The light winds are mainly from northwest-north-northeast over the state in January which gradually turn anti-clockwise replaced by light north-westerly to westerly or south-westerly winds in April. In July with the advance of the summers, the pressure gradient increases and correspondingly the winds from northwest to southwest also strengthen reaching their maximum strength. The pressure decreases from west-southwest to eastnortheast over the state, in July. Having the weakest pressure gradient the month of October is the transition period. The changeover of the pressure and wind pattern commences and north-northeasterly winds appear October onwards.
The maximum rainfall in the state is received in the Southern or SouthEastern districts of the state. On the west of Aravalli hills Pali and Jalore districts receive maximum amount of rain of 50 cm and 43 cm in West Rajasthan. In the North or North-Western districts Jaisalmer district receives the lowest rainfall. Bikaner, Ganganagar, Jaisalmer receive annual rainfall of 26cm, 24cm and 17cm respectively. The adjoining areas of these districts constitute the driest zone of the state.
The annual potential evapotranspiration values vary widely between eastern and western Rajasthan. In Dungarpur and Banswara districts the annual potential evapotranspiration is less than 1300 mm whereas it is more than 2000 mm in Jaisalmer district.
It is cloudless or slightly clouded during October to May but the part of the period from January to March is more clouded, especially during afternoons. The sky remains cloudless or lightly clouded over the state during April and May. During July and August, the monsoon skies are heavily clouded. The skies remains overcast for 5 days and clear on 7 days per month in West Rajasthan and for more than 8-9 days and clear on 4-5 days per month in East Rajasthan on an average during July and August. The cloud cover decreases to a great extent over the entire state during October.
Thunderstorms and Dust storms
For the occurrence of thunderstorms and dust storms convective activity is essential. Thunder activity becomes pronounced due to ground heating with the advance of the summer and when the moisture is insufficient in the Atmosphere, dry thunderstorms or dust storms occur. Maximum numbers of thunderstorms occur, with the approach of the monsoon current, while dust storms are mainly confined to the summer months of March-June. Hail is sometimes accompanied with Pre-monsoon and monsoon thunderstorms. The maximum occurrences of thunderstorms are during July in the state and minimal in the months from November to January. The average number of days of during the monsoon season is about 11 in West Rajasthan and 10 in East Rajasthan. The average annual number of thunderstorms in the West and East Rajasthan are 17.0 and 15.0.
Fog
Fog occurs occasionally due to lack of sufficient moisture in the region. The maximum frequency of occurrence of fog is during December and January in both Western and Eastern Rajasthan. The favorable Conditions for occurrence of radiation fog like light to calm winds, clear skies etc. exist after the withdrawal of the monsoon till the month of February. During the monsoon season hill fog occurs at few places, when air is almost saturated and is easily cooled below the dew point while rising over high elevations.
The average temperature experienced by the state is
| Months | January to March | April to June | July to September | Octoberto December |
| Temperature | 35°C – 25°C | 35°C – 45°C | 30°C – 40°C | 20°C – 30°C |
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Rajasthan is a state in northwestern India. It is the largest state in India by area, covering 342,239 square kilometers (132,139 sq mi). The state is bordered by Pakistan to the northwest, Gujarat to the west, Haryana and Punjab to the north, Uttar Pradesh to the northeast, Madhya Pradesh to the east, and Gujarat to the southeast. The capital of Rajasthan is Jaipur.
The climate of Rajasthan is arid to semi-arid. The average temperature in the state ranges from 10 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit) in winter to 45 degrees Celsius (113 degrees Fahrenheit) in summer. The annual rainfall in Rajasthan is about 500 millimeters (20 inches). The state experiences two main seasons: the monsoon season, which runs from June to September, and the winter season, which runs from October to March.
The Soil in Rajasthan is mostly sandy and loamy. The state is home to a variety of vegetation, including desert scrub, thorn forests, and grasslands. The wildlife in Rajasthan includes tigers, leopards, cheetahs, wild boars, and antelopes.
agriculture is the main occupation in Rajasthan. The state is a major producer of wheat, rice, Cotton, and sugar cane. Rajasthan is also home to a number of industries, including textiles, chemicals, and engineering.
Tourism is a major Source Of Income for Rajasthan. The state is home to a number of historical and cultural sites, including the Taj Mahal, the Amber Fort, and the Hawa Mahal. Rajasthan is also known for its wildlife sanctuaries and national parks.
The water Resources in Rajasthan are limited. The state receives most of its water from the monsoon rains. The Indira Gandhi Canal is the largest canal in Rajasthan. It supplies water for Irrigation and drinking water to a large part of the state.
The Energy Resources in Rajasthan include coal, solar power, and wind power. The state is home to a number of coal mines. Rajasthan is also a major producer of solar and wind power.
Rajasthan is facing the challenges of Climate Change. The state is experiencing an increase in the frequency and intensity of droughts and floods. The temperature in Rajasthan is also rising. This is having a negative impact on the state’s agriculture, Water Resources, and wildlife.
The government of Rajasthan is taking steps to address the challenges of climate change. The state is investing in RENEWABLE ENERGY sources, such as solar and wind power. The government is also working to improve water conservation and management.
Rajasthan is a beautiful and diverse state with a rich history and culture. The state is facing the challenges of climate change, but the government is taking steps to address these challenges.
What is the climate of Rajasthan?
The climate of Rajasthan is arid and semi-arid, with hot summers and cold winters. The average temperature in the summer is around 40 degrees Celsius, while the average temperature in the winter is around 10 degrees Celsius. The state receives very little rainfall, with an average annual rainfall of around 250 mm.
What are the different Types of Climate in Rajasthan?
The climate of Rajasthan can be divided into three main types: arid, semi-arid, and tropical. The arid climate is found in the western part of the state, where the average annual rainfall is less than 100 mm. The semi-arid climate is found in the central part of the state, where the average annual rainfall is between 100 and 250 mm. The tropical climate is found in the eastern part of the state, where the average annual rainfall is more than 250 mm.
What are the characteristics of the arid climate in Rajasthan?
The arid climate in Rajasthan is characterized by hot summers, cold winters, and very little rainfall. The average temperature in the summer is around 40 degrees Celsius, while the average temperature in the winter is around 10 degrees Celsius. The state receives very little rainfall, with an average annual rainfall of around 250 mm.
What are the characteristics of the semi-arid climate in Rajasthan?
The semi-arid climate in Rajasthan is characterized by hot summers, mild winters, and moderate rainfall. The average temperature in the summer is around 35 degrees Celsius, while the average temperature in the winter is around 15 degrees Celsius. The state receives an average annual rainfall of between 100 and 250 mm.
What are the characteristics of the tropical climate in Rajasthan?
The tropical climate in Rajasthan is characterized by hot summers, warm winters, and heavy rainfall. The average temperature in the summer is around 40 degrees Celsius, while the average temperature in the winter is around 20 degrees Celsius. The state receives an average annual rainfall of more than 250 mm.
What are the effects of climate change on the climate of Rajasthan?
Climate change is having a significant impact on the climate of Rajasthan. The average temperature in the state has increased by around 2 degrees Celsius in the past few decades. This has led to an increase in the frequency and intensity of heat waves. The state is also experiencing a decrease in rainfall. This is leading to an increase in the number of droughts.
What are the challenges posed by climate change to the people of Rajasthan?
Climate change is posing a number of challenges to the people of Rajasthan. The increase in the frequency and intensity of heat waves is leading to an increase in the number of deaths from heat stroke. The decrease in rainfall is leading to an increase in the number of droughts. This is leading to a decrease in agricultural production and an increase in the number of people who are food insecure.
What are the adaptation strategies that are being used to address the challenges posed by climate change in Rajasthan?
A number of adaptation strategies are being used to address the challenges posed by climate change in Rajasthan. These include:
- Increasing the use of drought-tolerant crops
- Improving irrigation systems
- Investing in renewable energy sources
- Raising awareness about climate change
- Building resilience to climate change
Sure, here are some MCQs without mentioning the topic Climate of Rajasthan:
Which of the following is the driest state in India?
(A) Rajasthan
(B) Gujarat
(C) Madhya Pradesh
(D) MaharashtraThe average annual rainfall in Rajasthan is:
(A) 200 mm
(B) 500 mm
(C) 1000 mm
(D) 1500 mmThe main source of water in Rajasthan is:
(A) Rainfall
(B) Rivers
(C) Lakes
(D) WellsThe main crops grown in Rajasthan are:
(A) Wheat
(B) Rice
(C) Cotton
(D) SugarcaneThe main languages spoken in Rajasthan are:
(A) Hindi
(B) Rajasthani
(C) Punjabi
(D) GujaratiThe capital of Rajasthan is:
(A) Jaipur
(B) Jodhpur
(C) Udaipur
(D) BikanerThe Population of Rajasthan is:
(A) 68.5 million
(B) 72.9 million
(C) 80.3 million
(D) 87.7 millionThe Literacy rate in Rajasthan is:
(A) 66.1%
(B) 70.2%
(C) 74.3%
(D) 78.4%The sex ratio in Rajasthan is:
(A) 928 females per 1000 males
(B) 939 females per 1000 males
(C) 950 females per 1000 males
(D) 961 females per 1000 malesThe life expectancy in Rajasthan is:
(A) 68 years
(B) 72 years
(C) 76 years
(D) 80 yearsThe main industries in Rajasthan are:
(A) Agriculture
(B) Mining
(C) Tourism
(D) All of the aboveThe main tourist attractions in Rajasthan are:
(A) The Taj Mahal
(B) The Red Fort
(C) The Hawa Mahal
(D) The Amber FortThe famous desert in Rajasthan is:
(A) The Thar Desert
(B) The Rann of Kutch
(C) The Great Indian Desert
(D) The Desert of TharThe famous wildlife sanctuary in Rajasthan is:
(A) The Ranthambore National Park
(B) The Sariska Tiger Reserve
(C) The Keoladeo National Park
(D) The Desert National ParkThe famous festival in Rajasthan is:
(A) The Jaipur Literature Festival
(B) The Pushkar Camel Fair
(C) The Teej Festival
(D) The Gangaur Festival
I hope these MCQs were helpful!