NCERT Class 9 Geography — Chapter 1: Climate

mcqeasy

The 'Western Cyclonic Disturbances' are low-pressure systems that originate over:

Official previous-year question

Verified 1 Aug 2026.

Options

AThe Arabian Sea
BThe Bay of Bengal
CThe Indian Ocean
DThe Mediterranean Sea

Did you get this right?

Solution

Correct Option

The correct option is

The Mediterranean Sea

Explanation

Western Cyclonic Disturbances are weather phenomena of the winter months brought in by the westerly flow from the Mediterranean region. They are classified as extratropical storms or temperate cyclones, distinct from the tropical cyclones formed in the lower latitudes.

Detailed Analysis

Origin: These low-pressure systems originate over the Mediterranean Sea. Some disturbances may also originate over the Atlantic Ocean, the Black Sea, or the Caspian Sea.
Transport Mechanism: They are driven eastwards towards the Indian subcontinent by the Subtropical Westerly Jet Stream.
Impact on India: They are responsible for sudden winter rain in the northwestern plains of India and snowfall in the Himalayan belts. This precipitation is crucial for the cultivation of Rabi crops (e.g., wheat).
Incorrect Options:
- The Bay of Bengal, The Indian Ocean, and The Arabian Sea: The Bay of Bengal, Indian Ocean, and Arabian Sea are associated with the formation of tropical cyclones. Western Disturbances are specifically defined by their origin in the mid-latitude westerly wind belt to the west of India.

Key Takeaway

Western Cyclonic Disturbances originate over the Mediterranean Sea and are transported to the Indian subcontinent by the Westerly Jet Stream, bringing essential winter precipitation.

Your note

More from Chapter 1: Climate

Consider the following statements regarding the climatic conditions in India: 1. The climate of India is described as the 'Mediterranean' type. 2. There is a wide difference in day and night temperatures in the Thar Desert. 3. Coastal areas generally experience less contrast in temperature conditions compared to the interior. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

medium

Which one of the following is the most likely reason for the wide difference between day and night temperatures in the Thar Desert compared to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands?

medium

With reference to the 'Climatic Controls', consider the following statements: 1. Air temperature generally increases from the equator towards the poles. 2. As one goes from the surface of the earth to higher altitudes, the atmosphere becomes less dense and temperature decreases. 3. Ocean currents have no influence on the climate of coastal areas. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

medium

Consider the following statements regarding the factors affecting India's climate: 1. The Tropic of Cancer passes through the middle of the country. 2. The entire country lies in the tropical zone south of the Tropic of Cancer. 3. India's climate has characteristics of tropical as well as subtropical climates. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

medium

Which of the following best explains why the Indian subcontinent experiences comparatively milder winters as compared to Central Asia?

easy

Keep practising Chapter 1: Climate

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Correct Option

The correct option is

The Mediterranean Sea

Explanation

Detailed Analysis

Origin: These low-pressure systems originate over the Mediterranean Sea. Some disturbances may also originate over the Atlantic Ocean, the Black Sea, or the Caspian Sea.
Transport Mechanism: They are driven eastwards towards the Indian subcontinent by the Subtropical Westerly Jet Stream.
Impact on India: They are responsible for sudden winter rain in the northwestern plains of India and snowfall in the Himalayan belts. This precipitation is crucial for the cultivation of Rabi crops (e.g., wheat).
Incorrect Options:
- The Bay of Bengal, The Indian Ocean, and The Arabian Sea: The Bay of Bengal, Indian Ocean, and Arabian Sea are associated with the formation of tropical cyclones. Western Disturbances are specifically defined by their origin in the mid-latitude westerly wind belt to the west of India.

Key Takeaway

Western Cyclonic Disturbances originate over the Mediterranean Sea and are transported to the Indian subcontinent by the Westerly Jet Stream, bringing essential winter precipitation.