What climatic phenomenon is primarily responsible for the winter precipitation received in the higher reaches of Uttarakhand in the form of snowfall?

💡 Solution & Explanation

Western Disturbances are extratropical storms originating in the Mediterranean region that bring sudden winter rain and heavy snowfall to the northwestern parts of the Indian subcontinent, including the mountains of Uttarakhand. South-West Monsoon brings summer rainfall, whereas North-East Monsoon primarily affects southeastern peninsular India. Western Disturbances are essential for replenishing the snowpack of Himalayan glaciers during winter.