Question

How does the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) attract the southwest monsoon?

Answer 1

• The ITCZ is a low-pressure belt around the equator, where northeast and southeast trade winds meet.
• In summer (June-July), the intense heat over the Indian landmass shifts the ITCZ northward, creating a low-pressure zone over northern India.
• The southeast trade winds from the southern hemisphere cross the equator, turn right due to the Coriolis effect, and blow as the southwest monsoon winds towards the low-pressure area over India.
• These moist winds bring heavy rainfall across the Indian subcontinent.