The seasonal reversal of winds is the typical characteristic of

The seasonal reversal of winds is the typical characteristic of

Equatorial climate
Mediterranean climate
Monsoon climate
All of the above climates
This question was previously asked in
UPSC IAS – 2014
The question asks which climate is characterized by the seasonal reversal of winds.
A) Equatorial climate: Equatorial climate regions near the equator typically experience consistent high temperatures and rainfall throughout the year, with prevailing winds that are generally constant (like trade winds or doldrums). There is no significant seasonal reversal of winds.
B) Mediterranean climate: Mediterranean climates are characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, typically influenced by the seasonal shift of subtropical high-pressure belts. While there are seasonal wind patterns, the defining characteristic is not a complete reversal of prevailing winds.
C) Monsoon climate: The monsoon climate is specifically defined by the seasonal reversal of wind direction. In summer, winds blow from the sea to the land (bringing heavy rainfall), and in winter, they blow from the land to the sea (leading to dry conditions). This reversal is driven by the differential heating of land and sea.
D) All of the above climates: Only the Monsoon climate exhibits the characteristic seasonal reversal of winds.
– Seasonal reversal of winds is the defining feature of the Monsoon climate.
– This phenomenon is caused by the differential heating of land and water bodies over seasons.
Monsoon climates are most prominent in South Asia, Southeast Asia, and parts of East Asia, as well as other regions like parts of Africa and Australia. The Indian subcontinent is a classic example of a monsoon climate region.