Kristian Bertel | Photography
Archive story
In this archive story we are taking a look at the Climate in Mumbai and Maharashtra in India.
Read the background story of this archive photo by the photographer.
The climate of Mumbai is a tropical, wet and dry climate and it can be best described as moderately hot with high level of humidity. Its coastal nature and tropical location ensure temperatures do not fluctuate much throughout the year and it is also seen in this photograph taken on the road to the Global Vipassana Pagoda in Mumbai, India.
The climate of Mumbai is a tropical, wet and dry climate and it can be best described as moderately hot with high level of humidity. Its coastal nature and tropical location ensure temperatures do not fluctuate much throughout the year and it is also seen in this photograph taken on the road to the Global Vipassana Pagoda in Mumbai, India.
Kristian Bertel, Photographer By Kristian Bertel, Photographer
– Updated on March 22, 2024

Climate in India

Maharashtra experiences a tropical monsoon type of climate. The most important factor which influences the climate is the towering presence of the Western Ghats which block the monsoon bearing winds coming from the Arabian Sea and cause rainfall. Mumbai weather can be categorized into 4 seasons of summer, winter, monsoon and the withdrawal season. December to February is the winter season, March to May is summer, June to September experiences monsoon climate while October to December is the withdrawal season. Maharashtra is one of the warmest region in India with an average daily high temperature of 33 degrees. With a yearly average of 33 degrees the climate is very warm, but has only a very few tropical and humid months.




Is Mumbai hot all year?

In Mumbai that is the capital of the state of Maharashtra, the climate is tropical, hot all year round, with a long, sunny season from early or mid-October to early June and a rainy season from June to September or early October.


A varied range of climatic conditions in India
India, a country known for its vibrant culture, diverse people and exotic landscapes, also has a unique and complex climate. Situated in the South Asian subcontinent, India experiences a varied range of climatic conditions, ranging from tropical to arid. The country's climate is influenced by a multitude of geographical and environmental factors, making it a fascinating subject to explore. One of the key factors that shape the climate in India is its sheer size and geographical diversity.

Covering an area of almost 2.1 million km², stretching from the Himalayas in the north to the Indian Ocean in the south and from the desert regions of Rajasthan in the west to the humid climate of the eastern coast, India boasts a wide range of climatic zones. This diversity is due to its location, which is influenced by the country's position in relation to the Equator, the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal. The monsoon season, famous for its torrential rainfalls, is the most significant weather phenomenon in India. It marks the arrival of the southwest monsoon winds, bringing in abundant moisture from the Indian Ocean. Starting in June and lasting until September, the monsoon season is crucial for the country's agriculture and economy as it provides the much-needed rainfall for the crops to grow.




"India's climate is as diverse as its culture, spanning from the scorching heat of the Thar Desert to the cool breezes of the Himalayas. From the tropical beaches of Goa to the snow-capped peaks of Ladakh, India offers a wide range of climatic experiences for travelers"




Monsoon has become unpredictable
However, in recent years, the monsoon has become unpredictable, leading to droughts and floods, causing disruptions in the lives of millions of people. Apart from the monsoon season, India experiences three distinct seasons- summer, winter and post-monsoon. The summer season, from March to May, is characterized by scorching temperatures in most parts of the country, with some regions recording temperatures above 45 degrees. The northwestern state of Rajasthan even experiences temperatures reaching up to 50 degrees, making it one of the hottest places in the world. The heat during this season can be quite unbearable, leading to water scarcity and heat-related illnesses. The winter season in India, from November to February, brings relief from the scorching heat and marks the arrival of pleasant weather. However, the northern regions experience freezing temperatures due to their proximity to the Himalayas and snowfall is a common sight in these areas.

On the other hand, the southern parts of the country experience mild winters, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees, making it an ideal time for tourism and outdoor activities. The post-monsoon season, from October to November, is a transitional period between the monsoon and winter season. It brings light rainfall and a drop in temperatures, making it an enjoyable time to visit many regions of the country. The northeastern parts of India, known for their picturesque landscapes, experience heavy rainfall during this season, making it one of the wettest places in the world.




"While India has a diverse and fascinating climate, it also faces numerous challenges due to its complex weather patterns. One of the most pressing issues is the impact of climate change. The rise in global temperatures and changing weather patterns have resulted in extreme weather events, such as cyclones, droughts and floods, becoming more frequent in the country"




Initiatives to reduce India's carbon footprint
These events have severe consequences on the country's economy, agriculture and the livelihood of its people To address these challenges, the government of India has taken numerous initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint, increase the use of renewable energy and promote sustainable practices. The country's second-largest solar power plant is located in India and it has set a target of generating 40 percent of its energy from renewable sources by 2030. The government is also undertaking projects to conserve water, promote afforestation and reduce air pollution. In conclusion, the climate in India is diverse and dynamic, influenced by various factors such as its geographical location, monsoon season and changing weather patterns.

While it presents many challenges, the country is taking significant steps to address them and move towards a more sustainable future. As responsible citizens, it is crucial for us to be mindful of our actions and contribute towards preserving the planet's climate for future generations.




"Climate is the average weather in a given area over a longer period of time. A description of a climate includes information on, for instance the average temperature in different seasons, rainfall and sunshine. Also a description of the chance of extremes is often included"




The climate in Maharashtra is primarily tropical
Maharashtra is a state located in the western region of India, with a diverse climate that is heavily influenced by its geography and topography. It is the third-largest state in India and is known for its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes and bustling cities. The climate in Maharashtra is primarily tropical, with hot and humid summers and mild winters. However, due to its vast size and varied landscape, the state experiences different weather patterns in different regions. Summer in Maharashtra lasts from March to June and is characterized by scorching heat and high levels of humidity. The temperatures can rise up to 40-45 degrees in some parts of the state, making it extremely uncomfortable for the residents. This period is also marked by strong winds and occasional thunderstorms, providing some relief from the heat.

The coastal regions of Maharashtra experience a relatively more pleasant climate during summers due to the sea breeze. Monsoon season in Maharashtra starts from June and lasts till September. It is a much-awaited season in the state as it brings relief from the scorching heat of summers. The state receives an average rainfall of 400-600 milimeters during this period, with some areas experiencing heavy rainfall. The monsoon not only brings much-needed relief from the heat but also revitalizes the land and contributes to the state's Agriculture. However, excessive rainfall can sometimes lead to water logging and floods, causing damage to crops and property.

The winter season is the best time to visit Maharashtra
Winters in Maharashtra are relatively mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10-15 degrees. The higher regions of the Western Ghats experience colder temperatures, with some areas even receiving snowfall. The winter season is the best time to visit Maharashtra as the weather is pleasant and the state's lush green landscapes are at their best. Overall, Maharashtra experiences a moderate climate with the influence of the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats. The state's coastal areas have a more humid climate, while the interior regions have a drier climate. The state's geography also plays a crucial role in its climate, with the Eastern Ghats acting as a barrier to the monsoon winds, resulting in reduced rainfall in the eastern parts of the state.




"Maharashtra's climate also has a significant influence on its agriculture and economy. The state is known for its diverse agricultural produce, such as cotton, sugarcane and fruits like mangoes and grapes. The monsoon season is crucial for the cultivation of these crops and any variation in the rainfall pattern can have a significant impact on the state's agricultural output. Industries such as sugar mills, dairy and fisheries are also heavily dependent on the state's climate"





See this video about the climate in India made by The Hindu.




Global warming and climate change in India
However, like most parts of the world, Maharashtra's climate has also been affected by global warming and climate change. The state has experienced severe droughts and floods in recent years, leading to crop loss and damage to property. Deforestation and rapid urbanization have also contributed to the state's environmental degradation, leading to a rise in temperatures and changes in rainfall patterns. To combat these challenges, the Maharashtra government has taken several initiatives to promote sustainable agriculture, reduce pollution and mitigate the effects of climate change. The state has also embarked on various water management projects to ensure the efficient use of water resources and mitigate droughts and floods.

Maharashtra's climate is diverse and has a significant impact on its people, agriculture and economy. A state in western India, Maharashtra is a land of contrasts, showcasing a diverse range of climates that vary across its regions. From the scorching heat of its deserts to the cool breezes of its hills, Maharashtra offers a captivating glimpse into the beauty of India's natural landscapes. The state's geographical and topographical features make it prone to extreme weather events, making it crucial for the government and its residents to work together towards sustainable development to protect the environment and mitigate the effects of climate change
.

A land of sun and dust
"- My journey through Maharashtra began in the heart of the Deccan Plateau, a vast expanse of land that dominates the state's interior. The sun beat down relentlessly, casting long shadows across the parched land. The air was dry and dusty and the only sound was the occasional rustle of leaves in the wind. Despite the harsh conditions, the Deccan Plateau is home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna. I spotted a variety of desert wildflowers, including the vibrant yellow flowers of the sunflower and the delicate purple blossoms of the periwinkle. I also saw a few hardy reptiles, including lizards and snakes, seeking refuge from the heat under rocks and shrubs. The Deccan Plateau is famous for its ancient caves, including the Ajanta and Ellora caves. These caves, dating back to centuries ago, are decorated with intricate carvings and murals that depict scenes from Hindu mythology", the Photographer says.

Read also:  Joy of India portraiture



Joy of India portraiture


Read also:  Joy of India portraiture

More archive stories

India is a land full of stories. On every street, on every corner and in the many places in India, life is rushing by you as a photographer with millions of stories to be told. In the archive story above, you hopefully had a readable insight in the story that was behind the photo of the Vipassano in Uttar Pradesh. On this website of Kristian Bertel | Photography you can find numerous travel pictures from the photographer. Stories and moments that tell the travel stories of how the photographer captured the specific scene that you see in the picture. The photographer's images have a story behind them, images that all are taken from around India throughout his photo journeys. The archive stories delve into Kristian's personal archive to reveal never-before-seen, including portraits and landscapes beautifully produced snapshots from various travel assignments. The archive is so-far organized into photo stories, this one included, each brought to life by narrative text and full-color photos. Together, these fascinating stories tell a story about the life in India. India, the motherland to many people around the world, a land of unforgetable travel moments. The archive takes viewers on a spectacular visual journey through some of the most stunning photographs to be found in the photographer's archive collection. The photographer culled the images to reflect the many variations on the universal theme of beauty and everyday life in India. By adding these back stories the photographer's work might immensely enhanced the understanding of the photographs.

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