They bring temporary relief by lowering the temperature.
Explanation
During the summer season (Hot Weather Season) in India, which typically lasts from March to May, the intense heating of the landmass creates low-pressure areas. This leads to the development of local weather phenomena in northern India, including hot dry winds known as "Loo" and violent dust storms known as "Andhi."
Analysis of Options
- They bring heavy and continuous rainfall. is Incorrect: Dust storms are primarily characterized by strong winds lifting loose dust from the dry ground. While they may be accompanied by squalls or light drizzles, they do not bring heavy and continuous rainfall. Heavy continuous rain is a characteristic of the Monsoon season.
- They bring temporary relief by lowering the temperature. is Correct: These dust storms typically occur in the late afternoon or evening. They bring temporary relief from the scorching heat because they are often associated with light rains and a cool breeze, which significantly lowers the ambient temperature.
- They are always associated with the arrival of the monsoon. is Incorrect: Dust storms are a pre-monsoon phenomenon peaking in May. The arrival of the South-West Monsoon in northern India generally occurs in late June or early July. Therefore, they are not always associated with the immediate arrival of the monsoon.
- They originate from the Bay of Bengal. is Incorrect: These storms originate locally due to convective instability caused by the intense heating of the land surface in northwest and north India. They do not originate from the Bay of Bengal.
Key Takeaway:
Dust storms ("Andhi") in northern India during May are local convective systems that provide temporary relief from high temperatures by bringing cool breezes and light rainfall.