The monsoon in Kerala is an annual weather phenomenon that brings heavy rainfall to the region. Here's a brief explanation of how the monsoon happens in Kerala:
Geographic Location: Kerala is located on the southwestern coast of India, bordered by the Arabian Sea on the west and the Western Ghats mountain range on the east. Its proximity to the equator and the presence of these geographical features play a crucial role in the monsoon.
Monsoon Winds: The monsoon in Kerala is primarily influenced by the seasonal shift in wind patterns. During the summer months (April to June), the landmass of the Indian subcontinent heats up more quickly than the surrounding ocean waters. As a result, low-pressure systems form over the land, drawing in moisture-laden winds from the Indian Ocean.
Onset of the Monsoon: The monsoon onset in Kerala typically occurs around the end of May or early June. The southwesterly winds, known as the Southwest Monsoon, start blowing from the Indian Ocean towards the Indian subcontinent. These winds are warm and carry a significant amount of moisture.
Arrival of Rainfall: As the southwest monsoon winds reach the Western Ghats, they encounter the mountain range, causing them to rise and cool. This ascent leads to condensation of the moisture in the air, resulting in the formation of rain clouds. These clouds bring heavy rainfall to Kerala and other parts of the Western Ghats.
Distribution of Rainfall: The Western Ghats act as a barrier, forcing the moisture-laden clouds to release their rainfall on the windward side, which includes Kerala. The mountains cause orographic lifting, where the air is forced to rise, leading to enhanced precipitation. As a result, Kerala receives a significant amount of rainfall during the monsoon season.
Duration of the Monsoon: The monsoon season in Kerala typically lasts from June to September. During this period, the region experiences consistent rainfall, with occasional breaks or lulls. The intensity of rainfall may vary, and the monsoon also progresses further northward to cover other parts of India.
It's important to note that while the monsoon brings much-needed rain to Kerala, excessive rainfall can sometimes lead to flooding and other related challenges. The timing, duration, and intensity of the monsoon can vary from year to year, influenced by various factors such as the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and other global weather patterns.
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