1. Latitude and Solar Radiation:
India is located between 8°4' N and 37°6' N latitudes. The amount of solar radiation received at different latitudes varies, resulting in variations in temperature and climate patterns. The northern parts of India receive more direct sunlight and higher intensity of solar radiation, while the southern regions receive less.
2. Altitude and Relief:
India has diverse topographic features, including mountains, plateaus, and plains. Altitude plays a significant role in determining temperatures, with higher altitudes generally experiencing cooler temperatures. For instance, the mountainous regions of the Himalayas in the north witness colder temperatures throughout the year.
3. Monsoon Circulation:
The Indian subcontinent is heavily influenced by the monsoon system, which is a seasonal reversal of wind patterns. The southwest monsoon winds bring moisture-laden air from the Indian Ocean and cause heavy rainfall during the monsoon season (June-September) in most parts of India. This leads to distinct wet and dry seasons in many regions.
4. Jet Streams:
Jet streams are fast-moving air currents located at high altitudes. Their movement affects weather patterns in different regions of India. The fluctuations in the path and strength of jet streams can influence the occurrence of weather phenomena like cyclones, droughts, and heat waves.
5. Western Disturbances:
Western disturbances are weather systems that originate in the Mediterranean region and bring winter rains to the northern parts of India, particularly the Western Himalayas and the adjoining plains. These disturbances bring much-needed precipitation to these regions during the winter months.
6. Regional Factors:
Local factors such as the proximity to the sea, the presence of mountain ranges, and the impact of urbanization also contribute to local variations in weather and climate patterns within different regions of India.
Due to the combination of these factors, India experiences a wide range of climatic conditions, including tropical, subtropical, temperate, and alpine climates, leading to distinct seasonal variations across the country.