Why is Banswara So Hot? The Geographical and Climatic Factors Explained

Banswara, located in southern Rajasthan, experiences high temperatures and scorching summers, often exceeding 45°C (113°F). While Rajasthan is generally known for its desert heat, Banswara’s unique geographical position, elevation, and regional climate patterns make it particularly hot.

In this article, we explore the scientific and geographical reasons behind Banswara’s extreme heat, including:
✔ Latitude & Solar Radiation
✔ Topography & Elevation
✔ Distance from the Sea (Continental Effect)
✔ Rain Shadow Effect of the Aravalli Range
✔ Local Wind Patterns & Lack of Moisture

1. Latitude & Solar Radiation: Direct Sun Exposure

Banswara lies at a tropical latitude (23.55°N), meaning it receives near-vertical sunlight for most of the year.

Key Factors:

High Solar Insolation: The sun’s rays strike almost directly overhead, especially in summer (April–June), leading to intense heating.

Longer Daylight Hours: Summers have 14+ hours of daylight, allowing prolonged heat accumulation.
Low Albedo Effect: The region’s dry soil and rocky terrain absorb more heat than they reflect.

Impact: This leads to rapid warming of the land, making days extremely hot.

2. Topography & Elevation: Trapped Heat in the Valley

Banswara is situated in a relatively low-lying basin surrounded by hills, including the Aravalli Range.

Why Does This Increase Heat?

Valley Effect: Heat gets trapped in the basin, reducing air circulation.

Lower Elevation (~302 meters above sea level): Lower altitudes experience higher temperatures due to denser air pressure.
Limited Vegetation: Unlike mountainous regions, Banswara’s sparse forests contribute to less natural cooling.

Impact: The terrain acts like a natural heat trap, preventing cool breezes from entering.

3. Distance from the Sea: The Continental Effect

Banswara is far from any major water body (nearest sea: Arabian Sea, ~500 km away).

Why Does This Matter?

No Maritime Influence: Coastal areas benefit from sea breezes that regulate temperature.
Extreme Temperature Variations: Inland regions like Banswara experience harsher summers and colder winters due to lack of moisture moderation.

Impact: The absence of sea winds leads to dry, stagnant air, increasing heat intensity.

4. Rain Shadow Effect of the Aravalli Range

The Aravalli Mountains block monsoon winds, reducing rainfall in Banswara.

How This Increases Heat:

Southwest Monsoon Winds from the Arabian Sea hit the Aravallis, leaving Banswara in a rain shadow.

Less Rainfall → More Dryness: Lower humidity means less evaporative cooling, leading to hotter conditions.

Impact: Banswara gets less than 800 mm annual rainfall, making it prone to droughts and heatwaves.

5. Local Wind Patterns & Lack of Moisture

A. Hot Winds from the Thar Desert

Loo Winds: In summer, hot, dry winds from Rajasthan’s deserts (Thar) blow into Banswara, raising temperatures further.

Westerlies: These winds carry hot, dust-laden air, reducing visibility and increasing discomfort.

B. Low Humidity & Rapid Evaporation

High Evaporation Rates: Water bodies like the Mahi River dry up quickly, reducing cooling effects.

No Moisture Retention: Dry soil and low vegetation mean no natural cooling from transpiration.

Impact: The combination of hot winds + dry air creates oppressive heat.

6. Climate Change: Increasing the Heat Burden

While geography plays a major role, climate change is worsening Banswara’s heat:
✔ Rising Average Temperatures (1.5°C increase in last 50 years).
✔ More Frequent Heatwaves (longer duration, higher intensity).
✔ Erratic Rainfall → Less groundwater recharge → More dry heat.

Conclusion: Why Banswara is One of Rajasthan’s Hottest Districts

Banswara’s extreme heat is a result of:

Tropical Latitude → Direct, intense sunlight.

Low Elevation & Valley Effect → Trapped heat.
Continental Location → No sea breeze cooling.
Rain Shadow Effect → Less rainfall, more dryness.
Desert Winds & Low Humidity → Scorching air.

What Can Be Done?

Afforestation to increase shade and moisture.

Water Conservation to sustain local cooling.
Urban Heat Island Mitigation (e.g., green roofs, reflective surfaces).

Banswara’s heat is geographically inevitable, but sustainable planning can reduce its impact.