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10 min read

Notes

Climate & Weather

Definition/Introduction

Climate refers to the long-term average of weather patterns in a particular area, typically measured over a period of 30 years. Weather, on the other hand, describes the atmospheric conditions at a specific time and place, including elements such as temperature, humidity, precipitation, and wind.

Constitutional Provisions

N/A

Historical Evolution

The understanding of climate and weather has evolved significantly over centuries. Early civilizations relied on observations of natural phenomena to predict weather patterns. With advancements in meteorology, the scientific study of weather and climate has become more sophisticated, incorporating satellite technology and climate models.

Classification/Types

1. **Tropical Climate**: High temperatures and significant rainfall occur throughout the year.

2. **Temperate Climate**: Moderate temperatures with distinct seasonal variations.

3. **Polar Climate**: Characterized by very low temperatures and minimal precipitation.

4. **Arid Climate**: Very low rainfall, resulting in dry conditions.

5. **Continental Climate**: Marked by large temperature differences between summer and winter.

Important Provisions/Features

  • **Isobars**: Lines on a weather map indicating equal atmospheric pressure.
  • **Monsoon**: Seasonal winds that bring heavy rainfall.
  • **El Niño**: Climate phenomenon impacting global weather patterns.
  • **Tropical Cyclones**: Intense circular storms originating over warm tropical oceans.
  • **Rainfall Patterns**: Understanding the distribution of rainfall is crucial for agriculture and water resource management.
  • Landmark Judgments

    N/A

    Amendments

    N/A

    Comparison Tables

    | Feature | Climate | Weather |

    |---------|---------|---------|

    | Duration | Long-term (30 years) | Short-term (hours/days) |

    | Measurement | Average conditions | Current conditions |

    | Elements | Temperature, precipitation, wind patterns | Temperature, humidity, cloud cover |

    UPSC Exam Focus

  • Distinction between climate and weather is frequently tested.
  • Importance of phenomena like El Niño and monsoons in influencing Indian weather patterns.
  • Identification of climate types based on given characteristics.
  • Recent Developments

    ### Narayan Ramachandran Committee on NPS Investment Guidelines

    This committee highlights the need for sustainable investment practices in alignment with climate goals, emphasizing the need for financial systems to adapt to climate change impacts.

    ### Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary Forest Fire

    The forest fire in Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary underscores the impact of climate change on biodiversity and the importance of conservation efforts in maintaining ecological balance.

    ### Global Water Bankruptcy Report

    This report emphasizes the urgent need to address water scarcity, which is aggravated by climate change, affecting agricultural productivity and overall human welfare.

    ### Roadmap for Green Transition of MSMEs

    This initiative aligns with climate goals and aims to transition industries towards sustainable practices, highlighting the role of MSMEs in contributing to climate change mitigation.

    ### Solar Radiation Storm

    The recent solar radiation storm indicates the interplay between solar activity and climate, affecting atmospheric conditions and technological systems.

    ### Exam Relevance

    These current affairs highlight the intersection of climate issues with economic policies, environmental conservation, and technological advancements, making them relevant for exam preparation.

    ### Possible Question Angles

  • Discuss the impact of El Niño on Indian monsoons.
  • Analyze the importance of biodiversity in the context of climate change.
  • Explain the significance of sustainable practices for MSMEs in combating climate change.
  • Key Concepts

    Climate: The long-term average of weather patterns in a particular area over significant periods, typically 30 years.

    Weather: The atmospheric conditions at a specific time and place, including temperature, humidity, precipitation, and wind.

    Isobars: Lines connecting points of equal atmospheric pressure on a weather map, indicating areas of high and low pressure.

    El Niño: A climate pattern characterized by the warming of ocean surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean, affecting weather globally.

    Monsoon: A seasonal prevailing wind in South Asia, bringing heavy rains during specific months of the year.

    Tropical Climate: A climate characterized by high temperatures and significant rainfall, generally found near the equator.

    Temperate Climate: A climate characterized by moderate temperatures and distinct seasons, typically found between the tropics and polar regions.

    Polar Climate: A climate characterized by extremely low temperatures and minimal precipitation, found in polar regions.

    Important Facts

    • •[N/A] El Niño phenomenon affects global weather patternsUPSC frequently asks about the implications of El Niño on Indian monsoon.
    • •[N/A] Monsoon is a prevailing wind bringing heavy rainsUnderstanding monsoon dynamics is crucial for agriculture and economy.
    • •[N/A] Climate change leads to increased frequency of extreme weather eventsExam questions often relate to recent climate events and their implications.
    • •[N/A] Forest fires are exacerbated by climate changeRecent events like Pangolakha highlight this issue.
    • •[N/A] Water scarcity is a significant challenge due to climate changeGlobal Water Bankruptcy Report emphasizes this fact.
    • •[2026] Solar radiation storms can impact weather conditionsRelevant for understanding the interplay between solar activity and climate.

    Mnemonics & Memory Tricks

    Types of Climate

    Tropical, Temperate, Polar, Arid - TTPA

    Weather Elements

    Temperature, Humidity, Precipitation, Wind - THPW

    Impact of El Niño

    El Niño affects Monsoons, Fisheries, Agriculture - EMFA