How do the monsoons and the mountains influence the climate in South Asia? Include in your answer an analysis of how monsoons can be responsible for survival and hardship in this region.
Monsoons greatly influence the climate in South Asia. In the winter, the winds blow from the northeastto bring dry air from Asia's mainland to most of South Asia. However, in the summer the wind's direction switches, picks up moisture from the Indian Ocean, and drops heavy rain as they travel over the land. Since South Asia is hot and dry, this helps farmers survive. These monsoons are not always good, if it rains too hard areas face the danger of flooding.
The Himalayas are a very important relief for Southeast Asia. They block the cold Siberian winds which can stop Asia from becoming a cold desert. These mountains also block the southwest monsoon winds and prevent them from going away.
Thanks for all your help!
Good.
You might include more of the disastrous effects of monsoons and heavy flooding.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/08/04/AR2007080400398.html
Thanks again!
You're welcome. :-)
You're welcome! I'm glad I could help. Monsoons and mountains play crucial roles in shaping the climate of South Asia.
First, let's talk about monsoons. Monsoons are seasonal wind patterns that bring heavy rain to South Asia during the summer months. They are caused by the differential heating of land and water. In winter, the cold winds blow from the northeast, bringing dry air from Asia's mainland to most of South Asia. However, in the summer, the wind's direction switches, and warm, moist air from the Indian Ocean flows over the land, resulting in heavy rainfall.
These monsoonal rains are a lifeline for the region. South Asia is generally hot and dry, and the arrival of monsoons allows farmers to cultivate their crops. The rains provide much-needed water for irrigation and help in the growth of crops, ensuring agricultural productivity and food security. The monsoons also replenish water reserves, fill up rivers and reservoirs, and support the region's overall water supply.
However, monsoons can also cause hardships. If the rainfall is too excessive or if it occurs in a short period, it can lead to flooding. Flooding can damage crops, destroy infrastructure, displace populations, and even result in loss of life. Floods can also increase the risk of waterborne diseases and create a challenging environment for people and animals to live in.
Now, let's turn our attention to the mountains, particularly the Himalayas. The Himalayas are a significant geographical feature in Southeast Asia, and they have a profound impact on the climate in the region. These mountains act as a barrier, blocking the cold Siberian winds from flowing southward into the region. This obstruction prevents South Asia from turning into a cold desert and helps maintain a more moderate, favorable climate.
Additionally, the Himalayas influence the monsoon winds. They act as a natural barrier, stopping the southwest monsoon winds from going away. This causes the monsoons to become concentrated and more intense over the plains of South Asia, leading to heavy rainfall.
In summary, monsoons and mountains have a significant influence on the climate in South Asia. Monsoons provide crucial rainfall for agricultural activities, supporting the survival of farmers in the region. However, excessive rainfall can lead to hardships such as flooding. Mountains like the Himalayas serve as barriers, blocking cold winds and intensifying the monsoons, which further impact the climate and precipitation patterns in South Asia.