Page 2 - Module
P. 2

Withdrawal of Monsoon



               Withdrawal or the retreat of the monsoon is a more gradual process. The process begins by
               early September in North-Western states. By mid-October, it withdraws completely from
               the Northern half of the peninsula.


               The withdrawal from the Southern half of the peninsula is fairly rapid. By early December,
               the » monsoon has withdrawn from the rest of the country.



               Onset and Withdrawal of Monsoon in the Indian Islands



               The islands receive the very first monsoon showers from the last week of April to the first
               week of May. The withdrawal takes place progressively from North to South (in reverse
               direction) from the first week of December to the first week of January. By this time, the
               rest of the country is already under the influence of the winter monsoon.

               Important Features of Monsoon



               The important features of monsoon are as follows


                     The monsoon is also known for its uncertainties.
                     There is alteration of dry and wet spells which vary in intensity, frequency and
                      duration.
                     While it causes heavy floods in one part, it may be responsible for drought in other
                      parts.
                     Its irregular arrival and retreat (sometimes due to the effect of EL Nino), causing
                      disruption .of farming schedules and causing droughts in certain areas of the country.




                   Break of Monsoon                           Burst of Monsoon

               1. When there are less or no rains for few     1.When it rains continuously for many days,
               days during the rainy season, it is known as   it is known as burst of Monsoon
               break of Monsoon

               2. The intensity of rainfall is not high.      2. The intensity of the rainfall is extremely
                                                              heavy.
               3. It may be beneficial for crops.             3. As there is extremely heavy rainfall, and if
                                                              it rains continuously for many days. It may
                                                              even cause damage to lives and property
   1   2