RAS question
'Loo' in Rajasthan refers to:
Correct answer: (B) Hot and dry summer winds.
In Rajasthan, loo refers to the dry, hot summer wind that blows during the hot-weather season.
Explanation
Loo is not a seasonal wind system like the monsoon; it is the dry, hot air associated with Rajasthan's summer. It blows over the plains of western Rajasthan in May-June, when temperatures can exceed 45°C and heat stroke risk rises. The India Meteorological Department, Meteorological Centre Jaipur climate document describes March, April and May as the summer or hot-weather season for Rajasthan's capital region, says the city experiences dry and hot weather in these months, and specifically notes that dry and hot air called loo disrupts daytime activity. That is why the option 'hot and dry summer winds' captures both the season and the physical character of loo.
Why the other options are wrong
- (A) Monsoon winds belong to the rainy season and bring humidity, cloudiness and rainfall, whereas loo is dry, hot summer air.
- (C) Dust storms are a separate summer phenomenon; India Meteorological Department, Meteorological Centre Jaipur distinguishes dry, hot loo from dust storms, locally called Andhi.
- (D) Cold winter winds are linked with Rajasthan's winter conditions, while loo is explicitly a hot-weather-season wind.
Concept
This tests Rajasthan climatology, especially local winds and seasonal weather terms. RAS repeats such items because names like loo, Andhi and monsoon winds connect physical geography with everyday weather hazards.