How and When Summer Enters India

 How and When Summer Enters India

India experiences a diverse range of climatic conditions due to its vast geographical expanse. Among the different seasons, summer is one of the most prominent, affecting almost every region in varying intensities. The entry of summer in India is marked by rising temperatures, shifting wind patterns, and changes in weather dynamics. Understanding how and when summer arrives can help in better preparation for its impact on daily life, agriculture, and overall climate conditions.

When Does Summer Start in India?

Summer in India typically begins in March and extends until June, with peak temperatures occurring in May. However, the exact onset of summer varies by region:

1. Northwest India (Rajasthan, Gujarat, Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi):

   • Summer begins by early March as temperatures rise due to the retreat of winter.
   • The region starts experiencing dry heat and increasing maximum temperatures.

2. Central India (Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra):

   • March marks the start of summer, but it intensifies by April and May.
   • Nagpur, for example, often records temperatures exceeding 45°C in May.

3. South India (Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala):

   • Summer onset is milder compared to North India due to the moderating effect of the sea.
   • Coastal areas experience humid heat, while interior regions like Telangana witness high temperatures.

4. Eastern and Northeastern India (West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, Assam, and Northeast states):

   • Summer begins in mid-March and lasts until June.
   • Pre-monsoon thunderstorms, such as Nor'westers (Kalbaisakhi), bring temporary relief.

How Does Summer Enter India?

The onset of summer in India is influenced by multiple climatic and atmospheric factors:

1. Shifting Sun Position:

   • As the Sun moves northward (Uttarayan), India starts receiving more direct solar radiation.
   • This leads to a steady increase in temperatures, especially in inland regions.

2. Retreat of Western Disturbances:

   • Western disturbances, which bring winter rains to North India, start weakening by February-March.
   • This allows dry northwesterly winds to dominate, contributing to rising temperatures.

3. Formation of Heat Domes:

   • High-pressure systems begin forming over Central and Northwest India.
   • These systems trap heat, leading to intense heatwaves, especially in Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh.

4. Increase in Land-Sea Temperature Contrast:

   • Land heats up faster than the ocean, strengthening inland heat and modifying monsoon patterns.
   • This change influences wind flow, triggering pre-monsoon activities in parts of Eastern and Southern India.

Key Characteristics of the Summer Season

• Heatwaves: North and Central India frequently experience heatwaves, with temperatures soaring above 45°C in states like Rajasthan, UP, and Delhi.
• Dry Winds: Strong dry winds, known as Loo, blow across northern and western parts of the country.
• Humidity in Coastal Areas: Unlike interior regions, coastal states face high humidity, making summers uncomfortable despite relatively lower temperatures.
• Pre-Monsoon Rains: Certain regions, particularly the Northeast and parts of South India, experience pre-monsoon showers that provide temporary relief.

Conclusion

Summer enters India gradually, beginning in March and intensifying through April and May. The influence of shifting sun patterns, weakening winter systems, and land-sea interactions shape the arrival and impact of summer. Understanding these patterns helps in preparedness for extreme heat, water management, and adapting to seasonal changes. As summer sets in, staying hydrated and taking necessary precautions against heatwaves becomes crucial for maintaining health and well-being.