Cloudburst and Rainfall | Climatology for UPSC CSE/IAS 2020 | Deepak Singh

Cloudburst and Rainfall | Climatology for UPSC CSE/IAS 2020 | Deepak Singh

TLDR;

This video explains cloud bursts, monsoon bursts and orographic rainfall, focusing on the science behind these phenomena and their geographical implications. It details the conditions that lead to cloud bursts in mountainous regions like Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, as well as monsoon bursts in South India near the Mahendragiri mountains. The video also covers orographic rainfall, explaining how it occurs and the formation of rain shadow regions.

  • Cloud bursts are characterized by intense rainfall in small areas over a short period, often accompanied by thunder and lightning.
  • Monsoon bursts occur when monsoon winds rapidly ascend mountains, causing rapid condensation and heavy rainfall.
  • Orographic rainfall happens when air is forced to rise over mountains, leading to cooling, condensation, and precipitation, and creating rain shadow regions on the leeward side.

Introduction to Cloud Bursts [0:48]

The video introduces the topic of cloud bursts, particularly in the context of areas like Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, where such events are frequently reported. It sets the stage for explaining what cloud bursts are and why they commonly occur in mountainous regions.

Understanding Cloud Burst Conditions [1:01]

Cloud bursts typically occur in mountainous areas due to specific conditions. These events involve rainfall concentrated in small areas, unlike widespread rainfall. The process of cloud formation is also limited to a localized region. Cloud bursts are characterized by very high-intensity rainfall over a short period, often accompanied by thundering and lightning.

Artificial Rainfall and Its Importance [6:20]

Artificial rainfall is important for increasing the amount of glaciers, especially in economically backward countries. It involves using substances like silver iodide and dry ice to induce precipitation. The process can help maintain river water levels and support vegetation and agricultural activities.

Church Destruction and Cloud Burst Definition [10:41]

In earlier times, church used to get destroyed a lot because the cross placed on top of the church was made of metal, so the stones used to fall there and the church used to get damaged. Cloud bursts involve intense rainfall concentrated in a small area over a short period.

Features of Conventional Rainfall [11:55]

Conventional rainfall is related to a small area and does not happen in a large area. The process of cloud formation also happens in a limited area. Cloud bursts are characterized by very high-intensity rainfall over a short period, often accompanied by thundering and lightning.

Monsoon and Cloud Burst Locations [15:07]

Cloud bursts are more common in North India, particularly in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, while monsoon bursts typically occur in South India. The monsoon season in North India differs from that in South India.

Reasons for Cloud Bursts in Mountainous Areas [16:35]

Cloud bursts happen in mountainous areas like Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh because of the rapid decrease in air temperature. When warm, moist winds from the plains enter these regions, they mix with the cold air, causing rapid condensation and heavy rainfall. The mountain ranges trap the rain, intensifying the precipitation.

Monsoon Burst in South India [20:24]

Monsoon bursts occur in South India, particularly near the Mahendragiri mountains. When monsoon winds hit these mountains, they are forced to ascend rapidly, leading to a quick decrease in temperature and increased condensation, resulting in high-intensity rainfall.

Orographic Rainfall Explained [24:05]

Orographic rainfall, also known as mountain rain, occurs when air is forced to rise over mountains. As the air ascends, it cools, leading to condensation and precipitation. This process often results in a rain shadow area on the leeward side of the mountain.

Process of Orographic Rainfall [25:27]

As air rises over a mountain, its temperature decreases, and relative humidity increases, leading to saturation and rainfall. The amount of rainfall varies at different heights. Initially, rainfall increases with height, but after a certain point, it decreases because the air loses moisture.

Adiabatic Processes and Rain Shadow Regions [32:23]

As air descends on the leeward side of a mountain, adiabatic heating occurs, increasing the air's temperature and decreasing relative humidity. This prevents condensation and rainfall, creating a rain shadow region.

Rain Shadow Effect and Desert Formation [38:37]

The rain shadow effect can lead to desert formation if the region lacks other sources of water. Without rainfall or rivers, the area becomes arid.

Writing About Orographic Rainfall [40:06]

Orographic rainfall occurs when air rises over mountains, leading to cooling, increased relative humidity, and rainfall. The amount of rainfall increases with height initially but decreases after a certain altitude due to moisture loss. The descending air on the other side experiences adiabatic heating, preventing rainfall and forming a rain shadow region.

Conditions for Rain Shadow Regions [42:18]

Rain shadow regions form when mountains are parallel to the coast. If mountains are perpendicular to the coast, orographic rainfall and rain shadow regions do not develop.

Examples of Rain Shadow Regions [45:14]

Alaska, controlled by the US, features mountain ranges parallel to the coast, leading to orographic rainfall and rain shadow regions. Similarly, the mountain ranges along the coast of Mexico and the United States create rain shadow areas.

Types of Rainfall and Cyclone Studies [49:21]

The video transitions to discussing different types of rainfall and mentions that the concepts covered will be relevant when studying cyclones. Understanding these basic concepts is crucial for geography.

Importance of Map in History and Geography [50:52]

The video emphasizes the importance of maps in understanding history, international relations, and current events. Geographical context is essential for comprehending historical and contemporary issues.

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Date: 8/16/2025 Source: www.youtube.com
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