Day 3 – Q 1. What effect would foehn-type winds have on farming, forestry and ski-resorts? Discuss.
1. What effect would foehn-type winds have on farming, forestry and ski-resorts? Discuss.
1. खेती, वानिकी और स्की रिसॉर्ट्स पर फोहन-प्रकार की हवाओं का क्या असर होगा? चर्चा करें।
Approach:
- Introduction: Mention what is Foehn wind and types.
- Body: Use those three areas mentioned in question and give one positive and one negative point for each part. Include diagram to score extra marks.
- Conclusion: 2-3 lines conclusion is must.
Answer:
Foehn wind is a warm, dry and down-slope wind occurring on the leeward side of a mountain as a result of the adiabatic warming of the air descending after precipitating on the windward slope of the mountain.
Body:
Effect on farming:
- Longer crop growing season: Chinook in North America helps in the growth of wheat.
- Droughts and drying up plants in certain areas.
- Favorable to cattle: Melts snow early and allows longer access to Alpine pastures for cows and sheep.
- Only crops with less water requirement can be grown due to low rainfall.
Effect on forestry:
- Forest fires: Santa ana winds in California are responsible for wildfires every year.
- Lack of dense forests and thus less forest associated activities in the region.
- New Farm land: Helps in clearing forest and preparing land for farming activities.
Effect on ski-resorts
- Avalanches: Loosening of ice particles due to melting.
- Glacial melt and downstream flooding can affect infrastructure.
- Health impacts decrease tourist attraction of the resorts.
Conclusion:
The foehn-type winds are found across all continents and are known by their regional names like Khamsin in Middle east, Nor’wester in New Zealand and foehn in Europe. Its effects can be both favorable and unfavorable, depending upon the prevalent climate of the region.
Best answer: Ankita Jeph
