What is the phenomenon of ‘cloudbursts’? Explain. (10 Marks) (Answer in 150 words)) (UPSC IAS Mains 2024 General Studies Paper – 1)
Cloudbursts are intense and sudden rainfall events that can lead to flash flooding and other severe weather conditions. These phenomena are often associated with thunderstorms and can cause significant damage to infrastructure and property.
- A cloudburst is a sudden, intense rainfall event where a large amount of rain falls in a short period, typically over a localized area.
- It is usually associated with cumulonimbus clouds and can lead to flash floods due to the large volume of water released in a short span.
Characteristics
- Duration: Cloudbursts typically last for less than an hour.
- Rainfall: More than 100mm of rain can fall within an hour, leading to rapid water accumulation.
- Localization: The event is highly localized, affecting small geographical areas, often less than 20 to 30 square kilometers.
- Weather conditions: Cloudbursts generally occur in mountainous regions or areas with complex topography where moisture-laden winds are forced upwards quickly.
Causes
- Orographic lifting: Mountains force moist air upwards, causing rapid cooling, condensation, and precipitation.
- Temperature Inversions: Sudden changes in temperature can trap warm, moist air in the lower atmosphere, leading to rapid condensation.
- Thunderstorms: Thunderstorm clouds (cumulonimbus) hold large amounts of moisture. Under certain conditions, this moisture is released rapidly as rain.
Impacts
- Floods and Landslides: Cloudbursts can cause flash floods and landslides, particularly in hilly areas.
- Destruction of Infrastructure: Roads, buildings, and other infrastructure in affected areas can be severely damaged.
Example - A cloudburst in Himachal Pradesh''s Dharamshala area led to floods and infrastructure damage.
Cloudbursts are a natural phenomenon that can have devastating effects on communities. By understanding the different types of cloudbursts and implementing prevention and mitigation measures, we can better prepare for and respond to these extreme weather events.
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