Assessment of Temperature and Precipitation Variability and its Spatial Distribution Over Haryana, India

Abstract

The climate of Haryana is marked by significant regional variability, influenced by its diverse geographical features, including the Shivalik Hills, the Yamuna River, and the Thar Desert. This study explores the regional differences in temperature and precipitation across the state, focusing on how these geographic features shape local climatic conditions. The maximum temperatures in northern and eastern Haryana are moderated by the cooling effects of the Shivalik Hills and the Yamuna River, resulting in cooler conditions compared to the hotter, semi-arid western and southern districts. Similarly, minimum temperatures are lower in the north, with cooler rural areas such as Ambala and Hisar, while urban centers like Faridabad experience higher minimum temperatures due to the urban heat island effect. Precipitation patterns further highlight this geographic diversity, with northern and eastern districts receiving more rainfall due to orographic effects, while the western regions experience significantly lower rainfall, influenced by their proximity to the Thar Desert. This study emphasizes the complex interactions between topography, moisture availability, and regional climate systems in determining Haryana’s climate. These findings have important implications for agriculture, water resources, and climate adaptation strategies, underscoring the need for region-specific policies to address the challenges posed by the state's diverse climatic conditions.