The Southwest (SW) Monsoon is the primary rainy season for most parts of India, occurring generally from June to September. This monsoon system brings moisture-laden winds from the Indian Ocean and the Arabian Sea, causing widespread rainfall across the country.

Understanding SW Monsoon Rainfall in India

During the period from June to September, the SW monsoon is active over large parts of India. The amount of rainfall received varies geographically due to factors like topography, wind patterns, and pressure systems. However, for most states, this monsoon season accounts for the majority of their annual precipitation.

SW Monsoon Influence on Selected States

• Karnataka: This southern state receives significant rainfall from the SW monsoon, especially the coastal regions and the Western Ghats, which act as a barrier, forcing the monsoon winds to rise and shed moisture.
• Odisha: Located on the east coast, Odisha is heavily influenced by the SW monsoon, often receiving heavy rainfall, particularly when low-pressure systems form over the Bay of Bengal.
• Maharashtra: The state of Maharashtra, especially the Konkan coast and the ghat areas, receives very heavy rainfall from the SW monsoon. Even the interior parts get substantial rain during this period.
• Jammu and Kashmir: This northern region, situated in the Himalayas, has a different precipitation pattern compared to the rest of India. While it does receive some rainfall from the SW monsoon, a significant portion of its precipitation comes from Western Disturbances during the winter months (October to March), often as snow at higher altitudes and rain in the valleys. The intensity and impact of the SW monsoon are less dominant in Jammu and Kashmir during June to September compared to the other listed states.

Comparing the rainfall patterns, Karnataka, Odisha, and Maharashtra rely heavily on the SW monsoon for the bulk of their rain from June to September. In contrast, Jammu and Kashmir's rainfall is influenced by both the SW monsoon and Western Disturbances, with the latter playing a crucial role, especially for winter precipitation. Therefore, Jammu and Kashmir does not receive most of its rainfall from the SW monsoon during the June to September period, unlike the other options provided.

Conclusion: State Least Affected by Peak SW Monsoon

Based on the regional climate patterns, Jammu and Kashmir is the state among the given options that does not receive most of its rainfall from the Southwest Monsoon during the months of June to September. Its precipitation is also significantly contributed by other weather phenomena like Western Disturbances.