The retreating monsoon refers to the phase of the Indian monsoon when the monsoon winds start to withdraw from the Indian subcontinent, typically beginning in September and lasting until November. During this phase, the rainfall over most parts of the subcontinent decreases gradually, and the weather becomes drier and cooler.
The retreating monsoon is characterized by the reversal of the pressure gradient between the Indian Ocean and the Tibetan Plateau, which leads to the weakening of the monsoon winds and their retreat from the subcontinent. As the monsoon winds move away from the subcontinent, they are replaced by northerly and northwesterly winds, which bring cool and dry air from the Himalayas and the Central Asian region.
During the retreating monsoon phase, the weather over most parts of India becomes pleasant, with cooler temperatures and lower humidity levels. However, some regions, such as southern India and the northeastern states, may continue to receive rainfall during this period due to the influence of other weather systems, such as cyclones or local weather patterns.
The retreating monsoon is an important phase of the Indian monsoon, as it marks the transition from the wet to the dry season in most parts of the subcontinent. It also plays a crucial role in determining the agricultural cycle, as it provides an opportunity for farmers to harvest their crops and prepare their fields for the upcoming winter season.
