What is the phenomenon of ‘cloudbursts’? Explain

Introduction

• Begin your answer with the definition of cloudbursts-sudden spell of localized, heavy rainfall over a small area.
• Give examples of major cloudburst events in India-Kochi (2024), Sikkim (2023), Pahalgam (2022), Chamoli (2021)

Body

• • Mention when do cloudbursts occur-common from May-September, where do they occur-can occur in plains but more likely to occur in hilly and mountainous regions because of terrain and elevation.

• Mechanism of cloudbursts- 

• • Occurs when moisture-rich air (provided by low-level eastern winds associated with a low-pressure system over the Gangetic plains) rises over mountains, forming Cumulonimbus clouds. 
  • The orographic lift supplies energy for cloudbursts, typically happening at 1,000-2,500 metres above sea level. 
  • often triggered by cyclonic circulations, low-pressure systems, or air mass interactions, adding atmospheric instability.
• Add a diagram showing the mechanism of cloudburst

• Difference between heavy rainfall and cloudburst
  • Rain is condensed water falling from a cloud, which may or may not be intense
  • Rain over 100mm per hour is categorized as a cloudburst→Heavy rainfall can be classified as a cloudburst only if it fits the criteria set by IMD

Conclusion

• You can highlight that Cloudbursts have become a significant concern in the Indian subcontinent, due to changing climate patterns and increasing human habitation in vulnerable areas. 
• Emphasize the need for robust urban planning and sustainable infrastructure development strategies to minimize damage.

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