Topic: Changes in critical geographical features (including water-bodies and ice-caps) and in flora and fauna and the effects of such changes.
Q2. “Declining Western Disturbances intensity is altering the winter climate of north-west India”. Analyse the causes and the consequences for Himalayan cryosphere stability. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: DTE
Why the question
Recent observations of declining snowfall and warming winters in the Western Himalayas have raised concerns about weakening Western Disturbances and their impact on regional climate systems.Key Demand of the question
The question requires analysing the causes behind the declining intensity of Western Disturbances and examining its consequences on the stability of the Himalayan cryosphere.Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Briefly link Western Disturbances with winter precipitation and cryosphere stability in north-west India.Body
- Statement context: Indicate how weakening Western Disturbances are altering winter climate patterns.
- Causes: Highlight one major atmospheric or climatic driver behind declining WD intensity.
- Consequences: Mention one key impact on Himalayan cryosphere such as snow cover, glaciers, or river regimes.
Conclusion
Provide a forward-looking remark linking climate variability with the need for monitoring and adaptation in mountain regions.
