Correct Option
The correct option isIt brings heavy rainfall to the northwestern parts of India.
Explanation
The Retreating Monsoon season, occurring during the months of October and November, marks the transition from the hot rainy season to dry winter conditions. This period is characterized by the apparent southward movement of the sun, causing the monsoon trough or the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) over the Northern Plains to weaken and be replaced by high-pressure systems.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement It occurs during October and November. is Correct: The retreating monsoon season specifically spans the months of October and November. During this time, the South-West Monsoon winds withdraw gradually from the Indian subcontinent.
- Statement The monsoon winds withdraw from the Northern Plains by the beginning of October. is Correct: The withdrawal of the monsoon begins in the northwestern states of India by early September. By the beginning of October, the monsoon winds completely withdraw from the Northern Plains.
- Statement It is associated with the 'October heat' phenomenon. is Correct: The retreat of the monsoon is marked by clear skies and a rise in temperature. Since the land is still moist from the rainy season, the combination of high temperature and high humidity creates oppressive weather conditions during the day. This phenomenon is commonly referred to as 'October heat'.
- Statement It brings heavy rainfall to the northwestern parts of India. is Incorrect: The retreating monsoon winds blow from land to sea (North-East to South-West) over most of the country, resulting in dry weather for northwestern India. These winds do not bring rainfall to the northwestern parts. Instead, as they pass over the Bay of Bengal, they pick up moisture and bring heavy rainfall to the southeastern coast (Coromandel Coast/Tamil Nadu).
Key Takeaway: The Retreating Monsoon is characterized by dry winds blowing from land to sea over most of India, causing the 'October heat' phenomenon. It brings significant rainfall only to the Tamil Nadu coast after picking up moisture from the Bay of Bengal, leaving northwestern India dry.