What are the climatic controls? How do they influence India's climate ?

Latitude and Solar Radiation

India’s position between the equator and Tropic of Cancer causes a temperature gradient, producing tropical climates in the south and subtropical in the north. This latitudinal variation also affects the length of day and intensity of solar radiation, shaping seasonal temperature differences.

Altitude and Relief Features

The Himalayas, averaging 6,000 meters, block cold Central Asian winds and influence rainfall; the Eastern and Western Ghats cause orographic rainfall affecting local climates like Andhra Pradesh’s. These relief features create microclimates and influence river patterns, such as the rain shadow effect in the Deccan Plateau.

Pressure and Wind Systems

Monsoon winds driven by land-ocean pressure differences bring 70-80% of rainfall; the northeast monsoon supplies about one-third of Andhra Pradesh’s rainfall, crucial for agriculture in the Godavari and Krishna basins. The Indian Meteorological Department’s data highlights the monsoon’s variability, affecting crop yields and water availability.

Distance from the Sea and Ocean Currents

Coastal regions like Visakhapatnam experience moderate temperatures and high humidity, supporting aquaculture and horticulture, while interior areas like Rayalaseema face drought due to continentality. Warming Indian Ocean currents increase cyclone frequency and intensity, exemplified by cyclones Hudhud (2014) and Titli (2018) in Andhra Pradesh, causing severe damage and highlighting climate vulnerability.