Monsoon refers to a seasonal wind pattern that brings significant changes in weather, especially in tropical and subtropical regions. Originating from the Arabic word *mausim*, meaning “season,” monsoons are marked by a shift in wind direction, leading to a distinct wet and dry season. They are most famously associated with South Asia, where the Southwest Monsoon brings heavy rainfall from June to September.
This seasonal rainfall is vital for agriculture, particularly for crops like rice and cotton, which rely on consistent water supply. The arrival of the monsoon replenishes rivers, lakes, and groundwater, supporting both farming and daily life. However, monsoons can also be unpredictable and intense, sometimes causing severe flooding, landslides, and damage to infrastructure.
While monsoons are essential for maintaining water resources and supporting livelihoods, they also pose challenges that require careful planning, especially in the face of climate change and increasing weather extremes.