Climatology : Circulation

Q 2 / 5

UPSC CSE Prelims 2009

Match List-I (Local Wind) with List-II (Region) and select the correct answer using the codes given below the lists:

List-I (Local
Wind)
List-II (Region)
A. Fohn 1. Argentina
B. Sarmun 2. Kurdistan
C. Santa Ana 3. California
D. Zonda 4. Alps

EXPLANATION

Correct Option:

(b)

Explanation:

The correct matching of local winds with their respective regions is as follows:

  • Fohn: A warm, dry, downslope wind experienced on the leeward side of the Alps. It results from adiabatic warming as air descends after losing moisture on the windward side.
  • Sarmun: A local, hot, and dry wind prevalent in the Kurdistan region, which spans parts of northern Iraq and Iran.
  • Santa Ana: These are strong, dry, and warm downslope winds that originate from inland desert areas and blow towards the coastal regions of Southern California. They are often associated with increased wildfire risk.
  • Zonda: A hot, dry wind that descends from the Andes Mountains into the western central parts of Argentina, particularly affecting the Mendoza region.

Incorrect Options:

Options (a), (c), and (d) are incorrect because they present different pairings for the local winds and their respective regions. The accurate associations are Fohn with Alps, Sarmun with Kurdistan, Santa Ana with California, and Zonda with Argentina.

SOURCECertificate Physical and Human Geography by G.C. Leong, Chapter 4: Winds and Pressure Systems