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Monthly DNA
The Government of Tuvalu has officially become the 90th State Member of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), marking a significant milestone in the country’s environmental efforts. About Tuvalu Tuvalu, formerly known as the Ellice Islands, is a small island nation located in the west-central Pacific Ocean. It holds the distinction of being one of the smallest countries in the world, both in terms of land area and population. Land Area and Location: Tuvalu is a collection of small islands and atolls, primarily made of coral reefs and volcanic rock. The country is located about halfway between Australia…
07 November, 2025
Current mapping upsc
The South Atlantic Anomaly (SAA) is a fascinating and critical phenomenon in Earth's magnetic field that continues to attract attention due to its expanding nature and its potential impact on space-based technologies. What is the South Atlantic Anomaly (SAA)? The SAA is a region of the Earth's magnetic field where the intensity of the magnetic field is weaker than normal. This anomaly is located southeast of South America and southwest of Africa. Why does the South Atlantic Anomaly Occur? Magnetic Field Weakness: The SAA occurs because the Earth's magnetic field dips unusually low in this region, allowing more charged particles…
06 November, 2025
Climatology
A recent report has highlighted the uncertain long-term survival of dugongs in the Gulf of Kutch and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, pointing to significant challenges for their conservation in these areas. The dugong, a marine herbivorous mammal, faces mounting threats to its habitat, primarily due to the degradation of its seagrass beds and other environmental pressures. About Gulf of Kutch The Gulf of Kutch is a biologically rich region located along the west coast of India, in the Jamnagar district of Gujarat. This inlet of the Arabian Sea serves as an important ecological zone for various marine species, including…
05 November, 2025
Current mapping upsc
Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki, located on Flores Island in eastern Indonesia, recently erupted, sending volcanic ash approximately 10 kilometers (about 6.21 miles) into the sky. About Mount Lewotobi Mount Lewotobi is a twin-peaked active volcano situated in the Ring of Fire, a major area in the Pacific Ocean where tectonic plates meet and volcanic activity is prevalent. This particular volcano is known for its frequent activity and stands as one of the most notable geological features on Flores Island. Location: Mount Lewotobi is located on the tourist island of Flores in eastern Indonesia. Flores Island is part of the Lesser Sunda…
05 November, 2025
Current mapping upsc
Recent research has indicated that Taftan Volcano, located in southeastern Iran, might be awakening after being dormant for nearly 700,000 years. About Taftan Volcano: Location: Taftan is a semi-active stratovolcano located in the southeastern part of Iran, near the Pakistan border (approximately 56 km away). It is situated within the Makran continental volcanic arc, an area formed by the subduction of the Arabian ocean crust beneath the Eurasian continent. Elevation: The volcano rises to an impressive 12,927 feet (3,940 meters), making it one of the highest peaks in the region. Volcanic Features: Stratovolcano: Taftan is a stratovolcano, which is known…
04 November, 2025
Geomorphology
Recent Incident: Airspace Violation: Recently, three Russian MiG-31 fighter jets violated the airspace of NATO member Estonia over the Gulf of Finland. The jets remained in Estonian airspace for 12 minutes, raising concerns among NATO allies. MiG-31: The MiG-31 is a supersonic interceptor aircraft, primarily used by the Russian Air Force for air defense and long-range intercept missions. These types of incidents involving airspace violations are often seen as a show of military power and can increase tensions between countries, especially in sensitive regions like the Baltic. About the Gulf of Finland: Geographical Location: The Gulf of Finland is the…
04 November, 2025
Current mapping upsc
Recently, an elite military unit in Madagascar has taken control of the country after a national assembly vote led to the impeachment of President Andry Rajoelina. The military backing of youth-led anti-government street protests marked a dramatic shift in the nation's political landscape. This development follows a period of intense political turmoil and unrest within Madagascar. About Madagascar Madagascar is an island nation in East Africa, situated in the Indian Ocean about 400 km off the coast of Mozambique. It is one of the largest island nations in the world and has a rich history and unique biodiversity. Geographical Details:…
03 November, 2025
Current mapping upsc
Five beaches in Maharashtra recently earned the prestigious Blue Flag certification, which is an internationally recognized eco-label for beaches, marinas, and sustainable tourism boats. About the Blue Flag Certification: What is Blue Flag? The Blue Flag certification is awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) in Denmark. It is a globally recognized eco-label that signifies high environmental standards. It is given to beaches, marinas, and sustainable tourism boats that meet 33 strict criteria, which cover areas like cleanliness, beauty, and environmental sustainability. History of the Blue Flag Programme: Started in France in 1985, the program began as a way…
02 November, 2025
Oceanography
Recently, Armenia became the newest State Member of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), joining a global community committed to conserving nature and promoting sustainable development. About Armenia Geography and Location: Landlocked Country: Armenia is nestled in the southern part of the Caucasus Mountain Range. Bordering Countries: It shares borders with Georgia to the north, Azerbaijan to the east, Iran to the southeast, and Turkey to the west. Terrain: The Lesser Caucasus Mountains dominate Armenia's landscape, creating a rugged terrain that influences its climate and agricultural practices. Soil and Agriculture: The country’s soil is highly fertile due to…
01 November, 2025
Current mapping upsc
India's Maitri II Station is set to become the country’s newest research facility in Antarctica, and the Finance Ministry has recently approved the project. This station will be an expansion of India’s polar research capabilities, especially in eastern Antarctica. Key Highlights of Maitri II Station: Location and Size: Maitri II will be established in eastern Antarctica and will be larger than the existing Maitri I station. The station will be designed as a green research base, focusing on sustainability and eco-friendly practices. Renewable Energy Use: The station will primarily use renewable energy to power its operations. Solar power will be…
01 November, 2025
Current mapping upsc
Myanmar recently assured India that there is no Chinese presence at the Coco Islands in the Bay of Bengal, a matter of significant strategic interest for India due to the islands' proximity to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. About the Coco Islands The Coco Islands are a small group of islands located in the Bay of Bengal, near the strategic Andaman and Nicobar Islands of India. Here are some key facts about the Coco Islands: Location The Great Coco Island, the largest in the group, lies just 55 km from India’s Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The islands are part of…
29 October, 2025
Current mapping upsc
India recently defended Qatar’s sovereignty at the U.N. Human Rights Council, emphasizing its right to maintain its domestic policies and governance, particularly in light of international criticisms. About Qatar Qatar, officially the State of Qatar, is a small but strategically important country located in Western Asia on the northeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. Here's a detailed look at the country: Geography and Location: Area: 11,586 square kilometers Borders: It shares a land border only with Saudi Arabia to the south, while it is surrounded by the Persian Gulf on all other sides. Proximity to Other Countries: The Gulf of…
28 October, 2025
Current mapping upsc
Recent research has unveiled that the famous moai statues of Easter Island were not dragged or rolled into position as previously believed. Instead, the island's early inhabitants employed a remarkable method of "walking" these giant stone figures upright, utilizing sophisticated engineering techniques. About Easter Island (Rapa Nui) Location: Easter Island, known as Rapa Nui to its original Polynesian inhabitants, is located in the southeastern Pacific Ocean. It is one of the most isolated inhabited islands in the world. Distance: About 3,540 km west of Chile. Around 1,900 km east of Pitcairn Island. Geography: Area: Covers 163.6 sq.km. Shape: Triangular in…
26 October, 2025
Current mapping upsc
The Black Sea remains a focal point of global geopolitical and environmental significance. Recently, Russia reported the destruction of 251 Ukrainian drones overnight, mostly over its southwest and in the Black Sea region, with one of the drones even targeting Moscow. Key Facts About the Black Sea: Location and Size: The Black Sea is a large inland sea located at the southeastern extremity of Europe, covering an area of about 436,000 square kilometers. It is one of the marginal seas of the Atlantic Ocean and is bordered by six countries: Turkey (south) Bulgaria and Romania (west) Ukraine (north) Russia (northeast)…
26 October, 2025
Current mapping upsc
The Mig La Pass, located on the Changthang Plateau in Ladakh, has recently set a world record with the construction of the world's highest motorable road at 19,400 feet above sea level. It is taller than both the South Base Camp of Mount Everest in Nepal (17,598 feet) and the North Base Camp in Tibe (16,900 feet).This significant achievement was carried out by Project Himank under the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), a critical initiative for improving road connectivity in the strategically important region of Ladakh. Key Highlights of Mig La Pass: World Record: At 19,400 feet, Mig La Pass now…
26 October, 2025
Current mapping upsc
The Coral Triangle, often referred to as the ‘Amazon of the Seas’, is one of the most biodiverse marine ecosystems on the planet. Spanning over 10 million square kilometers, it is home to a wealth of marine life, including over three-quarters of the world’s coral species, a third of all reef fish, and six of the seven marine turtle species. This critical area is not only a biodiversity hotspot but also crucial for the livelihoods of millions of people who depend on its resources for food and income. Key Facts About the Coral Triangle Countries Involved: The Coral Triangle encompasses…
25 October, 2025
Oceanography
Nankana Sahib is one of the most significant and revered cities for the Sikh community. It holds immense historical and spiritual value as it is the birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. Key Facts about Nankana Sahib: Location: Nankana Sahib is located in the Punjab province of Pakistan, approximately 75 kilometers west of Lahore. The city is historically tied to the Sikh faith and remains a major pilgrimage site for Sikhs worldwide. Historical Background: Originally known as Rai-Bhoi-Di Talwandi, the city was renamed Nankana Sahib by Rai Bhullar Bhatti, the grandson of the founder Rai Bhoi,…
24 October, 2025
Current mapping upsc
Willingdon Island is a prominent man-made island in the Kochi area of Kerala, India, and is regarded as one of the most beautiful locations in the region. It holds a special place in both historical and strategic contexts. Key Features of Willingdon Island Man-Made Island: Willingdon Island was created by the British during the colonial era and is named after Lord Willingdon, the 22nd Viceroy and Governor-General of India (1931–1936). Strategic Significance: The island serves as a hub for various important institutions and facilities: Kochi Naval Base: A key naval base of the Indian Navy, strategically important for the country's…
24 October, 2025
Current mapping upsc
India's only mud volcano, located on Baratang Island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, has erupted once again, drawing attention both for its unique geological phenomenon and its significance as a tourist destination. About Baratang Island Location: Baratang Island is situated in the North and Middle Andaman district, approximately 150 km from Port Blair. It’s part of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, known for their rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems. Mud Volcano: The island is home to India’s only mud volcano, which makes it a popular tourist spot. This natural wonder has intrigued visitors due to its rare geological formations.…
24 October, 2025
Current mapping upsc
Recently, the Indian government signed a contract with the International Seabed Authority to explore polymetallic sulphur nodules in the Carlsberg Ridge. About Carlsberg Ridge The Carlsberg Ridge is a mid-oceanic ridge located in the Indian Ocean. It is a divergent plate boundary, where tectonic plates are moving apart. Location: It extends from the triple junction of the African, Indian, and Australian tectonic plates, which is where it connects with the Mid-Indian Ridge. It runs northwest toward the Gulf of Aden. Geographic Separation: The ridge separates the Arabian Sea to the northeast from the Somali Basin to the southwest. Tectonic…
24 October, 2025
Oceanography
A 6.7 magnitude earthquake has recently struck Leyte Island in the Philippines. While the impact details are still emerging, such a significant tremor is likely to cause considerable damage, particularly to infrastructure in populated areas. About Leyte Island Leyte is a large and historically significant island in the Visayas group of islands in the Philippines. Geography Size: Leyte is the eighth-largest island in the Philippines, spanning 7,056 square kilometers. Coastline: It has a coastline of 969 km, providing significant access to marine resources. Location: It is located in the central part of the country and is separated from Samar Island…
16 October, 2025
Current mapping upsc
A 6.9 magnitude offshore earthquake recently struck Cebu province in central Philippines, shaking the region and prompting concerns about potential aftershocks and damage. About the Philippines The Philippines is a tropical island nation located in Southeast Asia, surrounded by seas and oceans. Here are key facts about the country: Geography and Location: The Philippines is situated in the western Pacific Ocean and consists of 7,641 islands. It shares maritime borders with several countries: Vietnam to the west, Taiwan to the north, Palau to the east, Malaysia and Indonesia to the south. Water Bodies: The country is surrounded by several significant…
15 October, 2025
Current mapping upsc
The Philippines has strongly reacted to China’s announcement of establishing a nature reserve in the South China Sea at the disputed Scarborough Shoal. This development has further escalated tensions between the two countries, both of which lay claim to the shoal. About Scarborough Shoal Scarborough Shoal, also known as Huangyan Island by China, is a disputed atoll located in the South China Sea, roughly 220 kilometers west of the Philippines’ Luzon Island. Geographical Features: The shoal is submerged during high tide, with only a few rocks above sea level. Significance: It is the largest atoll in the South China Sea…
14 October, 2025
Current mapping upsc
As part of their long-range training deployment in the southwest Indian Ocean Region, the ships of the Indian Navy’s First Training Squadron (1TS)—INS Tir and ICGS Sarathi—recently arrived at Réunion Island, while INS Shardul reached Port Louis, Mauritius. This deployment is part of India's continued strategic outreach and strengthening of maritime ties in the Indian Ocean region. About Réunion Island: Réunion Island is a French overseas territory located in the Western Indian Ocean. It plays a crucial role in France’s strategic military presence in the region. Geography: Situated approximately 680 km east of Madagascar and 180 km southwest of Mauritius,…
13 October, 2025
World Geography
The recent discovery of a 44,000-year-old wolf nearly perfectly preserved in permafrost is indeed groundbreaking Permafrost Overview What Is Permafrost? Permafrost refers to ground that remains frozen for at least two consecutive years (32°F or 0°C or lower). It’s a phenomenon largely observed in regions close to the poles and in areas with high mountain altitudes. The land remains frozen throughout the year, which leads to the preservation of organic matter—like the remains of ancient animals and plants—trapped within. Where Is Permafrost Found? Locations: Permafrost is mostly found in the Northern Hemisphere, covering regions in Siberia, Alaska, Canada, and…
12 October, 2025
Geomorphology
The Siachen Glacier in Ladakh has once again witnessed a tragic incident as three Army personnel, including two Agniveers, lost their lives in a major avalanche. The Siachen base camp is one of the highest and most challenging military posts in the world, located at an altitude of around 22,000 feet. About Avalanches An avalanche is a mass of snow, ice, and debris that suddenly slides down a mountain slope. Avalanches can be extremely dangerous, often burying people, structures, and vehicles in their path. In the context of the Siachen Glacier, such events are especially hazardous due to the high-altitude…
11 October, 2025
Geomorphology
Recent undersea cable cuts in the Red Sea have caused disruptions in internet access across parts of Asia and the Middle East. These cables are crucial for global data transmission, and their damage has had a significant impact on communication and connectivity between different regions. About the Red Sea: The Red Sea is a semi-enclosed inlet of the Indian Ocean located between Africa and Asia. Here are some key details about the Red Sea: Geographical Location: The Red Sea is connected to the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean to the south via the Gulf of Aden and the Bab…
09 October, 2025
World Geography
As part of the 50th Independence Day celebrations of Papua New Guinea (PNG), the Indian Navy Band had the honor of participating in the grand Military Tattoo held in Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea. The event was a significant moment, celebrating half a century of the nation's independence from Australia (1967) and fostering deeper ties between Papua New Guinea and India, especially in areas like defense and cultural exchanges. About Papua New Guinea Papua New Guinea is an island nation located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean and is part of the Oceania region. It has a unique…
09 October, 2025
World Geography
Recent News: China’s military recently reported that it had followed and warned a Canadian and an Australian warship that were sailing through the sensitive Taiwan Strait. About the Taiwan Strait Location and Geography: The Taiwan Strait, also known as the Formosa Strait, separates mainland China from the island of Taiwan. It extends from the South China Sea in the southwest to the East China Sea in the northeast. The strait runs between the coast of Fujian Province in China and the island of Taiwan. Dimensions: Average Width: About 180 km. Narrowest Point: Approximately 130 km wide. Depth: The strait is…
08 October, 2025
World Geography
The Blood Moon phenomenon is once again set to capture the imaginations of millions across Asia and Europe, as a total lunar eclipse will turn the moon a dramatic red. About the Blood Moon: A Blood Moon is the reddish appearance of the moon during a total lunar eclipse. This phenomenon is often described as the moon "turning blood red," though it can sometimes appear orange, copper-colored, or even slightly darker, depending on various factors. The red glow occurs due to the interaction of sunlight with Earth's atmosphere, particularly through a process known as Rayleigh scattering. Occurrence of a Blood…
07 October, 2025
Climatology
Mission Mausam is a significant initiative launched by the Ministry of Earth Sciences in 2024, with the aim of revolutionizing weather forecasting and improving the country’s response to climate variability. The latest development under this mission is the installation of four additional radars in Jammu & Kashmir by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), which will enable more accurate, district-wise weather forecasts for the region. Mission Mausam Overview: Launched by: Ministry of Earth Sciences (2024) Implemented by: India Meteorological Department (IMD) National Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasting (NCMRWF) Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) Objectives of Mission Mausam: Enhanced Forecasting Capability:…
07 October, 2025
Climatology
The recent news that India has secured Singapore’s support to patrol the Strait of Malacca is significant, especially in the context of India’s growing strategic role in the Indo-Pacific region. About the Strait of Malacca: Location & Geography: The Strait of Malacca connects the Andaman Sea (Indian Ocean) to the South China Sea (Pacific Ocean). It lies between the Indonesian island of Sumatra to the west and peninsular Malaysia and southern Thailand to the east. Historical Significance: The strait's name comes from the Malacca Sultanate, which controlled the region from 1400 to 1511. This historical backdrop adds to the region’s…
07 October, 2025
World Geography
Recently, a landslide buried a remote mountain village in the Darfur region of Sudan. About Sudan Location: Sudan is the third largest country in Africa. Borders: It shares its borders with South Sudan, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Egypt, Libya, Chad, and the Central African Republic. Geography: The country has a diverse landscape, ranging from the Sahara Desert in the north to the forests of West Africa and the Congo River basin in the south. Sudan has a significant coastline along the Red Sea to the east. It is largely characterized by vast plains and plateaus, with most of the land drained by…
06 October, 2025
World Geography
Kilauea volcano in Hawaii erupted recently, sending lava fountains up to 30 meters high. This is the 31st eruption since December 2024, continuing its active phase. About Kilauea Volcano One of the world’s most active volcanoes. Located in the southeastern part of the Big Island of Hawaii (Hawaii state, USA). It is a shield volcano, characterized by broad, gentle slopes formed by fluid lava flows. Height: 4,090 feet (1,250 meters). The summit caldera contains a lava lake called Halema‘uma‘u, believed to be the home of the Hawaiian volcano goddess Pele. Its slopes merge with the nearby Mauna Loa volcano on…
10 September, 2025
Current mapping upsc
Vietnam has significantly expanded island-building activities in parts of the Spratly Islands it claims. According to a recent U.S. think tank report, Vietnam’s construction efforts are expected to match or even surpass China’s scale of land reclamation and infrastructure development in the area. About the Spratly Islands Location: South China Sea, north of insular Malaysia, roughly between Vietnam and the Philippines. Geographical Spread: Covers around 158,000 sq miles (409,000 sq km) of ocean. Nature: Comprises reefs, shoals, atolls, and small islets, many of which are submerged at high tide. Key Islets: Itu Aba: Largest natural islet (~90 acres / 36…
10 September, 2025
Current mapping upsc
A powerful earthquake measuring magnitude 7.5 recently struck the Drake Passage, triggering a brief tsunami alert. The quake’s epicenter was located in this turbulent waterway between the southern tip of South America and Antarctica. About Drake Passage The Drake Passage lies between South America’s Cape Horn and the South Shetland Islands of Antarctica. Named after Sir Francis Drake, the first Englishman to circumnavigate the globe. It is a deep, wide waterway connecting the southwestern Atlantic Ocean and the southeastern Pacific Ocean. Known as one of the roughest waterways worldwide due to the clash of cold southern and warm northern seawater…
09 September, 2025
Current mapping upsc
In response to increasing complaints from locals regarding the misbehavior of foreign visitors, police on Jeju Island in South Korea have taken proactive measures by printing a special type of multilingual notice. About Jeju Island Jejudo, commonly known as Jeju Island, is a renowned volcanic island located in South Korea. Below are some essential details about Jeju Island: Geographical Location: Jeju Island is situated about 130 km off the southern coast of the Korean Peninsula and is the largest island of Jeju Province. It lies in the East China Sea, approximately 60 miles (100 km) southwest of South Jeolla Province.…
08 September, 2025
World Geography
Recently, a mountaineer from Arunachal Pradesh successfully climbed Mt Elbrus, the highest peak in Europe. About Mt Elbrus Location and Geography: Mount Elbrus is situated in southwest Russia, forming part of the Caucasus Mountain range. It lies within the Prielbrusye National Park, a protected area known for its rich biodiversity and alpine environment. Geological Formation: The Caucasus Mountains, including Mt Elbrus, were formed as a result of the northward collision between the Arabian Plate and the Eurasian Plate. Mt Elbrus itself is a dormant volcano, believed to have formed over 2.5 million years ago, with volcanic activity most prominent during…
30 August, 2025
World Geography
At least 20 people died after a migrant boat capsized off the southern Italian island of Lampedusa recently. About Lampedusa Island: Location: Southern Mediterranean Sea, between Malta and Tunisia; about 170 km southwest of Licata, Sicily. Size: Largest of the Pelagie Islands, covering about 21 sq.km. Administrative Region: Part of the autonomous region of Sicily, Italy. Geographical Note: Although administratively Italian, the island is geographically part of the African continent. Volcanic Origin: Known as the Pearl of the Mediterranean due to its volcanic lava formations. It is the emerged part of a volcano that last erupted around 9,000 years ago.…
26 August, 2025
World Geography
Scientists have recently uncovered possible artefacts from the oldest known Wallacean hominids on Sulawesi Island, Indonesia. This discovery has provided fresh insight into the migration patterns of prehistoric humans, particularly those from the Wallacea region. About Wallacean Hominids The earliest humans in the Wallacea region were believed to be Homo Erectus, who were previously thought to have only settled in Indonesia’s Flores Island and the Philippines’ Luzon Island around 1.02 million years ago. Homo Erectus was not believed to be capable of distant sea travel, which made their appearance on Sulawesi significant, challenging existing theories of human migration. Recent Findings…
25 August, 2025
World Geography
The Colorado River is currently facing a significant crisis as its flow continues to diminish, creating a highly competitive environment among the states that rely on its water for various purposes, including agriculture, industry, and drinking water. About Colorado River The Colorado River is one of the most important and iconic rivers in North America, playing a crucial role in supplying water to millions of people and various ecosystems. Origin: It rises in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, USA and flows westward and southward, eventually draining into the Gulf of California in Mexico. Length: The river flows for about 1,450…
20 August, 2025
World Geography
The Sea of Galilee in Israel has recently turned red due to a bloom of Botryococcus braunii, a type of algae. About the Sea of Galilee Location The Sea of Galilee is a large freshwater lake located in the northeastern part of Israel. It holds the distinction of being the lowest freshwater lake in the world, as well as the second-lowest lake globally, just above the Dead Sea. Geography It is situated in the Jordan Rift Valley, primarily fed by the Jordan River and supplemented by underground springs. Alternate Names The Sea of Galilee has been known by several names…
19 August, 2025
World Geography
A tragic incident occurred recently when a helicopter crashed into a barge in the Mississippi River near East Alton, Illinois, resulting in the deaths of two people. About the Mississippi River The Mississippi River holds several notable distinctions in North America: Longest River in the U.S.: Spanning more than 2,300 miles (3,700 kilometers), it is the longest river in the United States and the second longest in North America. Source and Destination: It begins at Lake Itasca in Minnesota and flows southwards, ultimately reaching the Gulf of Mexico. Key Tributaries: The river is fed by significant tributaries, including: Red River…
18 August, 2025
World Geography
Recently, Turkey closed the Dardanelles Strait to shipping traffic due to forest fires in the surrounding areas. The Dardanelles Strait is a vital waterway that connects the Aegean Sea to the Sea of Marmara, and it has strategic significance. Facts about the Dardanelles Strait Location and Geography: The Dardanelles Strait is located in northwestern Turkey. It forms a natural boundary between Europe and Asia Minor (Turkey’s Asian part). The strait is 61 km long and varies in width from 1.2 to 6.5 km, making it one of the narrowest yet most crucial international shipping routes. Historical Significance: In ancient times,…
17 August, 2025
World Geography
MISSION MAUSAM (Geography) GS-1 Prelims Union Cabinet under the Modi Government 3.0 approved Mission Mausam, a landmark initiative by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), with a budget of ?2,000 crores over two years. Designed to position India as a global leader in weather and climate sciences, the mission aims to make the nation ‘Weather Ready’ and ‘Climate Smart’, meeting the global standards. Aim: to improve weather and climate services, ensuring timely and precise observation, modeling, and forecasting information for multiple sectors, including agriculture, disaster management, and rural development. Spearheaded by the Ministry through its premier institutions—the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the National Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasting (NCMRWF), and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM)—the initiative…
26 December, 2024
Climatology
Oceanic Anoxic Event 1a from the Paris Basin (Environment) Paper-3 PMP OAE 1a refers to a period during the Cretaceous Period (145 million years ago and ended 66 million years ago) when Earth's oceans became depleted of oxygen, causing a significant disruption in marine life. Cause: The event is believed to have been triggered by massive volcanic eruptions that released significant amounts of carbon dioxide (CO?), leading to global warming and oxygen depletion in the oceans, which subsequently resulted in the formation of anoxic marine basins. Impact: CO2 in seawater forms carbonic acid, dissolving sea creatures' shells and lowering oxygen levels. This oxygen depletion led to the extinction of marine species, particularly plankton, and caused…
25 December, 2024
World Geography
The Supreme Court recently opined that if the State of Rajasthan believes that the mining activities in the Aravali Range pose a threat to the environment, it can also prevent mining activities in the Aravalli Range. About Aravalli Range It is a mountain range located in northwestern India. It is one of the oldest fold mountains in the world. It runs approximately 670 km (430 mi) in a south-west direction, starting near Delhi, passing through southern Haryana and Rajasthan, and ending in Gujarat. The range contains a series of ridges and peaks, which have widths between 6 miles and 60 miles, and elevations that vary between 1,000 and 3,000 feet. The highest…
01 February, 2024
Current mapping upsc
Indian Navy’s destroyer INS Visakhapatnam responds to distress call from drone-hit merchant vessel in Gulf of Aden. It is a deep-water basin that forms a natural sea link between the Red Sea and the Arabian Sea. Geography – It is an arm of the Indian Ocean that runs in a west-east direction, is located between Yemen on the south coast of the Arabian Peninsula and Somalia and Djibouti in Africa. Strategic importance - In the northwest it connects with the Red Sea through the Bab el Mandeb straits making it strategically important. Climate – It is strongly influenced by the upwelling of cool, nutrient-rich waters during the southwest and northeast monsoons and is characterized by a prevailing high-energy…
30 January, 2024
Current mapping upsc
Scientists recently stumbled upon a lost forest in the Panama Canal, dating back around 22 million years. Panama Canal It is an artificial waterway that connects the Atlantic Ocean with the Pacific Ocean.The canal cuts across the Isthmus of Panama and is a conduit for maritime trade.It was cut through one of the narrowest saddles of the isthmus that joins North and South America. It is one of the two most strategic artificial waterways in the world, the other being the Suez Canal. It is approximately 80 kilometers long. It consists of a series of locks that raise and lower the water level to facilitate the passage…
24 January, 2024
World Geography
Recently, the World Health Organization (WHO) has certified Cabo Verde (also known as Cape Verde) as a malaria-free country. Why in the news? Cabo Verde has become the third country to acquire the status in the global health organisation’s African region. The country has now joined Mauritius and Algeria, who were certified in 1973 and 2019, respectively. About Cabo Verde It is also known as Cape Verde which comprises a group of islands that lie off the west coast of Africa. It is located nearby Senegal and is the nearest point on the continent. This volcanic archipelago includes ten islands and five islets, divided into the windward (Barlavento)…
20 January, 2024
World Geography
Krizna Jama, also known as Cross Cave or Cold Cave under Cross Mountain, is a cave in Slovenia. It's located in the Loz Valley, between the Loz Karst Field, Cerknica Karst Field, and Bloke Plateau. Krizna Jama is the 4th biggest known underground ecosystem in the world in terms of biodiversity.
23 January, 2024
World Geography
Recently the draft policy was prepared to declare Pong Dam Wildlife Sanctuary and the surrounding area an eco-sensitive zone. It is the highest earth-fill dam in India and is one of India’s largest man-made reservoir. Built in – 1975, named after Maharana Pratap and so called as Maharana Pratap Sagar. Location – Over Beas River in Himachal Pradesh. Pong Dam Wildlife Sanctuary – In 1983, the entire reservoir was declared a Wildlife Sanctuary by the state government. It is covered with tropical and subtropical forests. It is the most important fish reservoir in the foothills of the Himalayas. Pong Dam Lake Bird Sanctuary – In 1994, the Government of India declared…
16 January, 2024
Environment geography
North Korea has fired more than 200 rounds of artillery shells off its west coast, towards the South's Yeonpyeong Island. Yeonpyeong Island – It is home to a military base and a small civilian population of about 2,000 people in South Korea. Geography – It lies 3km (2 miles) from the disputed maritime border in the Yellow Sea and 12km from the North Korean coast. Yeonpyeong Island is close to what is known as the ‘Northern Limit Line,’ the de facto maritime border that separates the two Koreas. Military events – It has been the scene of inter-Korean naval clashes over the years In 2010, 2 soldiers and 2 civilians…
09 January, 2024
World Geography
Tsunami waves hit several parts of Japan’s coastal areas and urgent evacuation warnings were issued after a 7.6-magnitude earthquake shook the country’s north-central region. What is Tsunami? Tsunami– A Japanese word meaning harbour wave. Tsu – harbour; nami - wave. It is a series of giant ocean waves caused by earthquakes or volcanic eruptions under the ocean. Submarine earthquakes have generated about 80% of all tsunami events recorded globally. Scientific Basis of Tsunami – Earthquake based Movement of plates – The Earth's lithosphere is broken up into a bunch of discrete pieces, called plates and there are 7 or 8 major plates and many minor plates. These plates…
08 January, 2024
Tsunami
Alvaro, the 1st cyclone of 2024, made landfall near Morombe in Madagascar recently. Mozambique named the cyclone Alvaro. Resilience and Preparedness to tropical cyclones across Southern Africa (REPRESA) is an international initiative that aims to improve community preparedness for tropical cyclones in Southern Africa.
15 January, 2024
Cyclone
The Czech Republic, also known as Czechia, is a landlocked country in Central Europe with its capital Prague. It borders Poland, Germany, Austria, and Slovakia. With a lack of natural lakes, reservoirs are important in the Czech Republic.
12 January, 2024
World Geography
The Earth reached its perihelion, or the closest point in its orbit around the Sun recently. Perihelion occurs in early January, about 2 weeks after the Winter Solstice.
11 January, 2024
Weathering and Erosion
The Earth reached its perihelion, or the closest point in its orbit around the Sun recently. Perihelion occurs in early January, about 2 weeks after the Winter Solstice.
11 January, 2024
Weathering and Erosion
Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki is a mountain in Indonesia. It is part of the Lewotobi twin volcano, which is located in the southeastern part of Flores Island. The Lewotobi twin volcano is made up of the Lewotobi Laki-Laki (male) and Lewotobi Perempuan (female) stratovolcanoes, with summit craters less than 2 km apart. Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki in Indonesia has erupted several times recently.
07 January, 2024
Volcanic Activity
The Black Sea also known as the Euxine Sea is a large inland sea located at the southeastern tip of Europe. The Black Sea is a marginal sea of the Atlantic Ocean, located between Eastern Europe and Western Asia. The Black Sea is bordered by Ukraine, Russia, Georgia, Turkey, Bulgaria, and Romania. It is the world's largest meromictic basin, meaning that the upper and lower layers of water exchange very little.
30 December, 2023
World Geography
India recently sent relief material worth $1 million for the people affected by a volcanic eruption in Papua New Guinea. A major volcanic eruption of Mount Ulawun in Papua New Guinea resulted in widespread damage and destruction in the island nation. Papua New Guinea sits on the Pacific “Ring of Fire”, an arc of seismic faults around the Pacific Ocean where much of the world’s earthquake and volcanic activities occur.
28 December, 2023
Volcanic Activity
The Caspian Sea is the world's largest inland body of water, located between Asia and Europe, and is shared by Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Russia, and Turkmenistan. The Caspian Sea is a landlocked sea and is also known as the Mazandaran Sea. It lies to the east of the Caucasus Mountains and to the west of the vast steppe of Central Asia. Baku is the largest port on the Caspian Sea and the largest capital city on the southern shore of the Absheron peninsula.
28 December, 2023
World Geography
The Winter Solstice is a phenomenon when the Northern Hemisphere is tilted furthest away from the sun, resulting in the longest night and the shortest day of the year. It occurs annually on December 21 or 22. It marks the 1st day of winter.
28 December, 2023
Weathering and Erosion
A recent report of Iceland's Meteorological Office said that volcanic eruption began in Iceland, south of the capital Reykjavik.
26 December, 2023
Volcanic Activity
Mount Everest-sized Devil comet hurtling in Earth’s direction could explode today. Pons-Brooks Comet - Comet 13P/Pons-Brooks, also called the Devil Comet, is about the size of Mount Everest and it is hurtling towards Earth. After an outburst in July, scientists believe that the comet could explode once again today. Ice volcanoes on the comet have erupted at least six times in 2023. That eruption caused the comet to distort into a horseshoe or horned shape. Near Earth - When the comet reaches the closest point to the Sun in its orbit, it will be at a distance of 0.8 astronomical units. One…
31 December, 2023
Universe and Solar System
Panama Canal Two important shipping routes the Suez Canal and the Panama Canal are facing blockages. It is a lock-type canal, owned and administered by the Republic of Panama. Lock-type canal is a system in which an enclosure or basin located in the course of a canal or a river (or in the vicinity of a dock) with gates at each end, within which the water level may be varied to raise or lower boats. The Panama Canal connects the Atlantic and Pacific oceans through the narrow Isthmus of Panama. Panama Canal is one of the two most strategic artificial…
29 December, 2023
World Geography
Houthi attacks on tankers passing through the Bab-el-Mandeb has disrupted one of the busiest global shipping lanes, dragging the U.S. deeper into the conflict. Red Sea – A narrow strip of water extending for about 1,200 miles. Geography – It extends between the Mediterranean Sea, to the north-west, and the Indian Ocean, to the south-east. In north, it separates into the Gulf of Aqaba and the Gulf of Suez and in south, it is connected to the Gulf of Aden, and the outer Indian Ocean, via the Strait of Bab-el-Mandeb. 6 bordering countries – Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Sudan, Eritrea and Djibouti. Physiography – It lies in a fault depression that…
29 December, 2023
World Geography
Active volcanoes are volcanoes that are either erupting or on the verge of eruption. Mount Etna (Italy), Hawaiin Islands (Pacific Ocean), Mauna Loa (Pacific Ocean), Mount Vesuvius (Italy), and Barren Island (India) are some examples of active volcanoes around the world. Volcanoes are geological features formed by the eruption of molten rock, ash, and gases from beneath the Earth’s crust onto its surface. They are often located at the boundaries of tectonic plates, where the Earth’s lithospheric plates interact. Volcanic activity can take various forms, including explosive eruptions and gradual extrusions of lava. Largest Volcanoes In the World Feature & Location Volcanoes in the World…
27 December, 2023
Volcanic Activity
The Taiwan Strait is also known as the Formosa Strait that separates mainland China and the island of Taiwan. The strait is part of the South China Sea and connects to the East China Sea to the north. The strait is an arm of the Pacific Ocean and extends from southwest to northeast.
23 December, 2023
World Geography
The Red Sea is a narrow inland sea between Africa and the Arabian Peninsula and most heavily travelled waterways between Europe and Asia. It is connected to the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean to the south through the Gulf of Aden and the narrow strait of Bab el Mandeb. The northern portion of the Red Sea is bifurcated by the Sinai Peninsula into the Gulf of Aqaba and the Gulf of Suez, where it is connected to the Mediterranean Sea via the famous Suez Canal. It's one of the world's warmest and saltiest seas, and is high in nutrients and plankton. ???????
23 December, 2023
World Geography
Jasper is a Tropical Cyclone that formed in the north coast of Queensland in Australia.
17 December, 2023
Cyclone
Julian Felipe Reef is a reef in the Spratly Islands of the South China Sea. It lies in the Exclusive Economic Zone of Philippines. It's also known as Whitsun Reef, Whitson Reef, and Whitsum Reef. It's the largest reef in the Union Banks.
07 December, 2023
World Geography
Seismogenic liquefaction features like multiple sand dykes and sand sills have been identified by scientists in an active fault in northeastern region (NER), called Kopili fault (KF) zone. The Kopili Fault, a lineament situated in the northeastern region (NER), extends from the western part of Manipur to the tri-junction of Bhutan, Arunachal Pradesh, and Assam. It is one of the active fault that has experienced large earthquakes and falls into the Highest Seismic Hazard Zone V.
06 December, 2023
Earthquake
Mawar and Bolaven - Western Pacific Ocean Hurricanes Jova and Otis - Eastern Pacific Ocean. Hurricane Lee - Atlantic Ocean. Cyclone Mocha - North Indian Ocean. Cyclone Freddy - Southern Indian Ocean.
04 December, 2023
Cyclone
The Philippines opened a coast guard base on the contested island of Thitu, South China Sea recently. Thitu Island - Thitu Island is a rock located in the Spratly Islands. The Philippines first took possession of the feature in 1974. Subi Reef – It is a low-tide elevation in the Spratly Islands. It is located in the South China Sea and it was possessed by China in 1988.
03 December, 2023
World Geography
Data indicates an increase in earthquake activity in 2023 was mainly attributed to the activation of the Almora fault. Almora Fault – It is located in Western Nepal. It is a high angle west-northwest-east-southeast to northwest-southeast trending tectonic plane. It separates the inner lesser Himalayas in the north from outer lesser Himalayas in the south. A fault It is a fracture or zone of fractures between two blocks of rock. Movement – It allow the blocks to move relative to each other which may occur rapidly, in the form of an earthquake or may occur slowly, in the form of creep. Range - Few millimetres to thousands of kilometers. Activation of…
08 December, 2023
Current mapping upsc
Recently, the U.N. Security Council scheduled an emergency closed meeting at the request of Guyana following Venezuela’s weekend referendum claiming Essequibo region. Geography – It a 61,600-square-mile area located in the heart of the Guiana Shield, a geographical region in the northeast of South America. It accounts for two-thirds of Guyana. The area is one of the 4 last pristine tropical forests in the world. Economical value – It has vast oil and mineral resources.With these resources, Guyana is set to surpass the oil production of Venezuela, and by 2025, it would become the world’s largest per-capita crude producer. Currently, Venezuela has the world’s largest proven…
07 November, 2023
Current mapping upsc
Recently the Cyclone Michaung made landfall over Nellore in Andhra Pradesh as a super-cyclonic storm. Cyclone As per National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), cyclones result from atmospheric disturbances surrounding a low-pressure area characterised by rapid and often destructive air circulation Air circulation- The air circulates inward in an anticlockwise direction in the Northern Hemisphere and clockwise in the Southern Hemisphere. Occurrence- Cyclonic winds move across nearly all regions of the Earth except the equatorial belt. Conditions of the cyclone- Large and continuous supply of warm and moist air that can release enormous latent heat. Strong Coriolis force that can prevent filling of low pressure…
07 December, 2023
Cyclone
Skaftareldar It was erupted in 1783 near the Vatnajokull glacier. As a result, 25% of the country’s population died at the time. Grimsvotn It is the most active volcano in Iceland. At the time of its eruption, it was the largest in Iceland. (eruptions – 1902, 2004, 2011). Vesuvian It is also known as Plinian eruption. These eruptions are distinguished by powerful bursts of gas, and volcanic material like rocks and hot gases shot up into the stratosphere. Eyjafjallajokull It is an icecap in in Iceland that witnessed 3 months of volcanic activity. The activity heated a nearby glacier river,…
30 November, 2023
Volcanic Activity
Daniel Noboa sworn in as Ecuador's President recently. Ecuador is a country in South America that's named after the equator, which splits the country in two. Capital – Quito. It's bordered by Colombia in north, Peru in east and south and in west by Pacific Ocean. It is home to Amazon rainforest, Andean paramos, Cloud forests, Galápagos Islands.
24 November, 2023
World Geography
Joseph Boakai was recently declared winner of Liberia's presidential election, beating incumbent George Weah. Liberia is a country in West Africa sharing its borders with Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Ivory Coast to the northwest, north, and east respectively. The Atlantic Ocean borders Liberia to the south-southwest.
21 November, 2023
World Geography
2nd Thomas Shoal is a submerged reef in the Spratly Islands of the South China Sea. The shoal is located 105 nautical miles west of Palawan, Philippines and lies within Manila’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The shoal is a disputed territory and is claimed by China, the Philippines, Taiwan (ROC) and Vietnam.
15 November, 2023
World Geography
It is a proposed canal through Israel that would connect the Gulf of Aqaba (Red Sea) to the Mediterranean Sea. It was named after David Ben-Gurion, Israel's founding father and 1st Prime Minister. The project was envisioned in the 1960s to create an alternative route to the Suez Canal and challenge Egypt's monopoly on the shortest trade route between Europe and Asia.
10 November, 2023
World Geography
Location - South West Iceland, on the floor of the Atlantic Ocean. It is a volcanically active region that runs along the Mid-Atlantic Rift, where the Eurasian and the North American tectonic plates are drifting apart. Recently, the Fagradalsfjall volcano erupted in this region.
10 November, 2023
Volcanic Activity
Unseasonal and sudden heavy rainfall, accompanied by thunderstorms, hailstorms and lightning strikes, have claimed 27 lives in Gujarat. What is lightning? It is a natural phenomenon where the electric charges travel from one point to the other within the clouds or between a cloud and the earth. It is accompanied by a bright flash and sometimes thunderstorms. Inter cloud or intra cloud lightning- They are visible and are harmless. Cloud to ground lightning- It is harmful as the ‘high electric voltage and electric current’ leads to electrocution. When the temperature drops, the water droplets that are held in the clouds begin to become…
29 November, 2023
Climatology
According to a new study, Earth core's mysterious new layer was formed due to surface water diving deep. Inner Earth – It has 4 primary layers Inner core (innermost layer) Outer core Mantle (middle layer) Crust (outermost layer) E-prime layer – It is the new enigmatic layer which is formed at the Earth's outer core as a result of surface water penetrating deep into the planet. It is more than 60 miles (100 kilometers) thick, relatively slim compared with other sections of Earth's interior. Impact – Modifications in the liquid metallic layer could potentially result in reduced density and altered seismic characteristics. Significance – The…
26 November, 2023
Geomorphology
Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) has discovered that the Southern Annular Mode (SAM) plays a pivotal role in shaping the sea conditions across the Indian Ocean. SAM – It refers to the north-south movement of Southern Westerly Winds over timescales of 10s to 100s of years. They blow almost continuously in the mid- to high-latitudes of the southern hemisphere and so called as Antarctic oscillations. It is usually defined as the difference in the zonal mean sea level pressure at 40°S (mid-latitudes) and 65°S (Antarctica). Importance – It shapes the wave patterns over extended time frames and a climate driver by influencing…
23 November, 2023
Oceanography
Atmospheric Waves Experiment will determine the combination of forces that drive space weather in the upper atmosphere. AWE is a Mission of Opportunity under NASA’s Heliophysics Explorers Program that studies the Sun and its interactions with the Earth and the solar system, including space weather. Objectives To study the interactions between terrestrial and Space weather To study colourful bands of light in Earth’s atmosphere, called airglow Features - Advanced Mesospheric Temperature Mapper (ATMT) will be mounted on the exterior of the Earth-orbiting International Space Station (ISS) to record the airglow at mesopause in the infrared bandwidth. Mesopause is a region between the mesosphere and thermosphere at about…
22 November, 2023
Climatology
The 59th International Tropical Timber Council (ITTC) was held at Pattaya, Thailand in 2023. ITTC – It is the governing body of the International Tropical Timber Organisation (ITTO) which meets once a year. Objectives – To promote sustainable tropical forest management and the trade of sustainably produced tropical timber. To develop forest-related policies and approve and finance field-level projects. Membership – It comprises all the 75 ITTO’s members. Assisted by 4 committees Committee on Economics, Statistics and Markets. Committee on Reforestation and Forest Management. Committee on Forest Industry. Committee on Finance and Administration. International Tropical Timber Organisation (ITTO) It is an intergovernmental organization based on International Tropical Timber Agreement, 2006 that entered into…
22 November, 2023
World Geography
Volcanic Eruptions Long-term Recent Volcanoes Location Volcanoes Location Mount Etna Italy Mayon Philippines Kilauea Hawaii Semeru Indonesia Mauna Loa Hawaii Mount Merapi Indonesia Dukono Indonesia Eyjafjallajökull /Fagradalsfjall Iceland Santa Maria Guatemala Fuego Guatemala Yasur Vanuatu Klyuchevskoy Russia Pacific Ring of Fire or Circum-Pacific Belta long seismically active belt along the Pacific Ocean is home to about 75% of the world’s volcanoes.
09 November, 2023
Volcanic Activity
A new study has pointed out that rapid melting of West Antarctica’s ice sheet due to warm waters around it, is now unavoidable, no matter how much carbon emissions are cut. It is the fifth-largest continent. It is larger than Europe and is twice the size of Australia. The continent is a high plateau that is frozen throughout the year. There is no coastal plain. There are mountain ranges, peaks, a rift valley, and volcanoes. Two broad inlets, the Weddell Sea and the Ross Sea and the Trans- Antarctic Mountains that cross the entire continent divide the land into West Antarctica and East Antarctica. The former…
01 November, 2023
World Geography
Ningaloo Eclipse On April 20, 2023, people saw the Ningaloo Eclipse. Due to the curvature of the earth's surface and the transition from an annular to a total eclipse, it is a rare 'hybrid solar eclipse'. The following one won't show up until 2031, the last of which was spotted in 2013. What are the Key Aspects of the Hybrid Solar Eclipse? Australia, Timor-Leste, and Indonesia's West and Papua provinces were able to see the total solar eclipse. Southeast Asia, the East Indies, Australia, the Philippines, and New Zealand all witnessed a partial solar eclipse at the same time. India…
26 April, 2023
Universe and Solar System
Electromagnetic Ion Cyclotron Waves In the Indian Antarctic outpost Maitri, scientists have discovered Electromagnetic Ion Cyclotron (EMIC) waves, a type of plasma waves. These waves are crucial in the precipitation of killer electrons, which are dangerous for space-based equipment and instruments and constitute the radiation belt of planet Earth and have speeds close to the speed of light. The investigation can aid in understanding how energetic particles in the radiation belts affect low-orbit spacecraft. Electromagnetic Ion Cyclotron Waves: What Are They? The subtle electromagnetic emissions detected in the Earth's magnetosphere are known as EMIC waves. These waves are created at…
21 April, 2023
Heat waves
Heatwave In Mumbai, heatstroke recently claimed the lives of eleven people. The incident re-emphasizes the dangers associated with heat waves, whose frequency and intensity are predicted to increase due to climate change. The European Space Agency observed land surface temperatures in May 2022 that were close to 55 °C in various areas of northwest India and even reached 60 °C in certain places. The last ten years have seen five of India's five warmest years on record. In addition, high temperatures, little rain, and humidity have increased discomfort levels, making life even more difficult for individuals without access to cooling…
18 April, 2023
Heat waves
Geomagnetic Storm According to the US National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration, Earth just experienced a strong geomagnetic storm with a severity classification of G4 (NOAA). The second-highest severity rating, G4, has the potential to result in widespread issues with power grid voltage regulation. Protection mechanisms may inadvertently trip critical grid power assets as a result. About geomagnetic storm An energy exchange from the solar wind into the space environment around Earth causes a geomagnetic storm, which is a significant disturbance of the magnetosphere. The release of magnetic energy from the sunspots, known as solar winds, results in solar storms.…
05 April, 2023
Climatology
Atmospheric Rivers Since late December 2022, 11 atmospheric rivers have pounded California, making it an unusually wet winter. About atmospheric rivers The Long, slender bands of moisture in the air that travel from the tropics to higher latitudes are known as atmospheric rivers. When the moisture goes inland from the ocean and climbs over the mountains, it produces rain and snowfall. Despite the fact that many fire-weary Westerners anticipate these downpours, atmospheric rivers can also result in other catastrophes like catastrophic flooding and debris flows. There are atmospheric rivers all over the planet, and they have an impact on the…
04 April, 2023
World Geography
Quasicrystals In the Sand Hills in north-central Nebraska, USA, researchers have located a third naturally occurring source of quasicrystals. What are Quasicrystals? Quasicrystals are intriguing substances with an unusual confluence of features. They serve as evidence of the strength and beauty of asymmetry in the natural world. In contrast to conventional crystal: As opposed to conventional crystals, which have their atoms arranged in a set, repeated pattern, quasicrystals have their atoms arranged in a pattern that repeats themselves at random intervals. Because of this departure from the regular arrangement of atoms in solids, quasicrystals are a representation of the strength…
16 February, 2023
Geomorphology
Earth's Inner Core According to recent research, the Earth's inner core may currently be revolving slower than the planet's surface after having stopped spinning faster than it. Findings: In the early 1970s, the inner core began rotating a little bit more quickly than the rest of the planet. However, it had been slowing before synchronizing with Earth's rotation in 2009. A "negative trend" has occurred, which indicates that the inner core is currently revolving more slowly than the surface. The next alteration could happen around 2040. According to the findings, the Earth's deep core typically modifies its rotational speed every…
31 January, 2023
Geomorphology
Lake Chad Basin The risky connection between climate change and violence in nations like Cameroon, Chad, Niger, and Nigeria in the Lake Chad Basin has been underlined in a report by a humanitarian organisation. More about the news: Conflict and migration in the area are being fueled by droughts, flooding, and a decreasing Lake Chad. According to a report by Refugees International, communities are becoming tenser and individuals are being displaced as a result of shrinking natural resources brought on by unfavorable weather. An extra 11 million people require humanitarian aid, and there have been about 3 million displaced persons.…
30 January, 2023
Changes in critical geographical features
Green Comet After 50,000 years, the Comet C/2022 E3 (ZTF), sometimes known as the "Green Comet," is now approaching Earth. More on the news: The US-based Zwicky Transient Facility (ZTFwide-field )'s survey camera made the initial discovery of the comet in March 2022. Following its first discovery by the Zwicky Transient Facility (ZTF), the comet was named C/2022 E3 (ZTF). It is currently travelling away from the sun along its own orbit after coming close to it in the middle of January. Several locations across the world may now see the comet as it approaches Earth. The comet, which originates…
28 January, 2023
Universe and Solar System
Thailand Corals Getting Destroyed According to recent reports, Thailand's enormous tracts of the ocean floor are being destroyed by a condition known as yellow band disease that is fast spreading. The reefs may be more susceptible to yellow-band disease as a result of overfishing, pollution, and rising water temperatures brought on by climate change. More on the news: The corals' colour changes to yellow just before they are killed. It was initially discovered decades ago, and the Caribbean reefs have suffered extensive damage as a result. The affected area of the sea is more than 600 acres. Corals that have…
28 January, 2023
Coral reefs
Strait Of Hormuz The military of the United Arab Emirates and Iran recently began their yearly drill in the Gulf of Oman's coastal region and close to the vital Strait of Hormuz. The exercises are designed to increase preparation for dealing with outside threats and potential invasions. About Strait of Hormuz: A fifth of all oil sold at sea passes through the strait, which is at the mouth of the Persian Gulf and is vital to the world's energy resources. The waterway connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea while dividing Iran and Oman.…
02 January, 2023
Current mapping upsc
Cold Wave in India In December and January, Delhi is prone to chilly spells. The number of cold wave days in January has fluctuated from zero to seven over the last decade. On January 8, the lowest minimum temperature recorded was 1.9 degrees Celsius, the second-lowest minimum temperature in January in 15 years. The region had extreme chilly day conditions due to fog and low cloud covering, with temperatures remaining below normal in parts of Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh. What is a Coldwave? Coldwave conditions are defined as a percentage drop in…
07 January, 2023
cold waves
Heat waves & India’s Cooling Sector The World Bank recently published the report "Climate Investment Opportunities in India's Cooling Sector." Highlights of the Report: Heatwave exposure: From 2030 onwards, more than 160 to 200 million people in India could be exposed to a lethal heat wave each year. Productivity is declining: Due to heat stress-related productivity decline, approximately 34 million Indians will lose their jobs. Demand for cooling: According to a World Bank report, cooling demand is expected to be eight times higher by 2037 than it is now. In this scenario, India must deploy alternative and innovative energy-efficient technologies…
03 December, 2022
Heat waves
Earthquake Recently, when an earthquake with a magnitude of 6.6 rocked Nepal, killing a few people and destroying many homes, India experienced strong vibrations. Why did these tremors occur? The India and Eurasia Plate collisions, the primary cause of seismicity in the Himalayas, are cited by the United States Geological Survey (USGS) as the cause of the earthquakes. At a relative pace of 40–50 millimetres each year, these plates are convergent. This region is one of the most seismically dangerous places on Earth as a result of the northward underthrusting of India beneath Eurasia. Some of the deadliest earthquakes have…
15 November, 2022
Earthquake
Mauna Loa Volcano The world's biggest active volcano, Mauna Loa, might explode at any moment. Where is Mauna Loa? Mauna Loa is one of five volcanoes that make up Hawaii's Big Island. It is the most southern of the Hawaiian islands. It is not the tallest (that honor belongs to Mauna Kea), but it is the largest and accounts for roughly half of the island's land mass. It is located directly north of the Kilauea volcano, which is currently erupting from its summit crater. Kilauea is best known for its 2018 eruption, which destroyed 700 homes and sent lava rivers…
07 November, 2022
Volcanic Activity
Climate Change and the Rainbow According to a recent study, the changes in cloud cover and liquid precipitation brought on by higher greenhouse gas emissions are expected to result in a net increase in the mean number of rainbow days worldwide each year. By 2100, the average number of rainbow days is anticipated to increase globally by 4.0–4.9% per year. What about Rainbows has the study revealed? Locations with Fewer Rainbows Rainbow days will disappear from about 21-34% of geographical regions. By 2100, overall precipitation is expected to be lower in areas that would get fewer rainbow days, with the…
05 November, 2022
Climatology
Cyclone Sitrang Cyclone Sitrang impacted Bangladesh by slamming into low-lying, highly inhabited areas. The first tropical cyclone of the 2022 post-monsoon season, Sitrang, was given its name by Thailand. The last storm to hit the Bay of Bengal in October in 2018 was Titli. What are the Tropical Cyclones? A tropical cyclone is a powerful circular storm with low air pressure, strong winds, and heavy rain that develops over warm tropical waters. The eye, a center region with clear skies, warm temperatures, and low air pressure, is a defining characteristic of tropical cyclones. Typhoons in Southeast Asia and China are…
27 October, 2022
Cyclone
Storm Sitrang in the Bay of Bengal The first Tropical Cyclone of the 2022 post-monsoon season, Sitrang, is expected to form in the Bay of Bengal on October 24. Titli was the last October cyclone in the Bay of Bengal in 2018. About Storms of severe severity emerge in the North Indian Ocean — comprised of the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea — in the months of October-November and May-June, with an average of five developing per calendar year. October has seen 61 storms form in the Bay of Bengal over the last 131 years. In comparison to the…
20 October, 2022
Cyclone
Ocean Currents and Global Warming A recent study claims that the Galápagos Islands have been protected from global warming by cold ocean currents. Key Study Findings Combating Global Warming: The islands are shielded from the warming Pacific Ocean by a chilly, eastward equatorial ocean current, which has been strengthening for decades. Since the early 1990s, the temperature of the water off the west coast of the Galápagos Islands has decreased by 0.5 degrees Celsius. The chilly ocean current and global warming are at odds with one another. The ocean current is currently under control because the weather is getting colder…
14 October, 2022
Oceanography
Desertification and Land Degradation To rehabilitate degraded land and stop the spread of desert in India, the government intends to combine the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) and the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS). Major Points: Rising Degraded Land: At least 30% of India's total geographic area falls under the category of "degraded land," according to the Desertification and Land Degradation Atlas 2021. Data by State: More than 50% of the land in Jharkhand, Rajasthan, Delhi, Gujarat, and Goa is being degraded or turned into desert. States with less than 10% land degradation include Kerala, Assam,…
04 October, 2022
Changes in critical geographical features
Melting of Arctic Ice & Ocean acidification The western Arctic Ocean's altering chemistry has just been brought to light by a research team. Information about the study Research findings: Three to four times quicker than other ocean waters, the acidity levels in Arctic seas are rising, according to the study. Seawater typically has a pH of 8.1, making it alkaline. The team also discovered a significant link between the rate of ocean acidification and the accelerated rate of glacier melting. Reasons: Scientists Cite sea-ice melt as the principal factor responsible for this abrupt pH drop since it affects surface water…
01 October, 2022
Oceanography
World’s largest iceberg breaks off from Antarctica A huge ice block has broken off from western Antarctica into the Weddell Sea, becoming the largest iceberg in the world and earning the name A-76. It is the latest in a series of large ice blocks to dislodge in a region acutely vulnerable to climate change, although scientists said in this case it appeared to be part of a natural polar cycle. Slightly larger than the Spanish island of Majorca, A-76 had been monitored by scientists since May 13 when it began to separate from the Ronne Ice Shelf, according to the…
21 May, 2021
World Geography
STEVE Phenomenon After a severe solar storm struck Earth, the astronomical phenomena known as "Strong Thermal Emission Velocity Enhancement (STEVE)" made an unexpected appearance About STEVE phenomenon STEVE first emerged in the skies in 2017, and since then, he has returned frequently. The assertion that the phenomena have been visible in the sky since 1705 is supported by evidence. It is an extremely uncommon, enigmatic, luminous purple arc that appears nearer to the equator and extends from east to west. Why does it happen? The phenomenon is thought to be created by a 25 km wide ribbon of hot plasma…
18 August, 2022
Structure of Atmosphere
The Rhine River Due to the exceptionally hot and dry weather, the Rhine river's water levels are quite low, making it difficult for many ships to travel the vital European commerce route with their cargo fully loaded. About Rhine river It is a western European canal that has played a significant role in the continent's culture and history. It is also among the most significant routes for industrial transportation worldwide. It begins high in the Swiss Alps in two headstreams. It empties into the North Sea through the Netherlands as it travels north and west from two minor headways in…
17 August, 2022
Contemporary climate and other issues
Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) The likelihood of above-average rainfall over much of Australia has increased due to a negative Indian Ocean dipole event that has been proclaimed. What is the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD)? It is an atmosphere-ocean coupled phenomenon in the tropical Indian Ocean (like the El Nino is in the tropical Pacific), characterized by a difference in sea-surface temperatures. A ‘positive IOD’ — or simply ‘IOD’ — is associated with cooler than normal sea-surface temperatures in the eastern equatorial Indian Ocean and warmer than normal sea-surface temperatures in the western tropical Indian Ocean. The opposite phenomenon is called…
13 August, 2022
Climatology
Soil Mapping In order to use fertilisers more effectively, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) recently launched a project to digitally map soil nutrients in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and central America. Additionally, it will arrange and enhance current soil maps. About soil mapping Soil Mapping is the process of delineating natural bodies of soils, classifying and grouping the delineated soils into map units, and capturing soil property information for interpreting and depicting soil spatial distribution on a map. Benefits: It will improve knowledge of the kinds of nutrients our soils and crops require. Additionally, it will improve fertilizer effectiveness and…
10 August, 2022
Environment geography
Great Barrier Reef’s Recovery and Vulnerability An annual long-term monitoring report on the Great Barrier Reef's recovery and susceptibility to climate threats was just made public by the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS). In-water and airborne methods are used to survey the reefs. Key finding Background: The northern and central portions of Australia's Great Barrier Reef have the highest levels of coral cover recorded during the past 36 years (GBR). Warning: Due to the increase in global temperatures, coral bleaching might happen quickly. There was a significant coral bleaching incident on the reef in March 2022. The increase in…
09 August, 2022
Coral reefs
Karakoram Anomaly What is Karakoram Anomaly? The 'Karakoram Anomaly' is termed as the stability or anomalous growth of glaciers in the central Karakoram, in contrast to the retreat of glaciers in other nearby mountainous ranges of the Himalayas and other mountainous ranges of the world. The reason behind the anomaly: The revival of western disturbance (WD) has been instrumental in triggering and sustaining the Karakoram Anomaly as per scientists. WDs are the primary feeder of snowfall for the region during winters and the study suggests they constitute about around 65% of the total seasonal snowfall volume and about 53% of the…
19 July, 2022
Environment geography
New Heat wave Hotspots and Trends in India North-Western, Central, and further to south-central region of India are the new hotspot of intense Heatwave events over the past half-century, said a study which found an increase in deadly Indian heat waves in recent years. The study also highlights the need for developing effective heat action plans in the three heatwave hotspot regions with a focus on different vulnerabilities among the inhabitants. Heatwaves emerged as a deadly health hazard, claiming thousands of lives across the globe in recent decades, with episodes strengthening in frequency, intensity, and duration in the past half-century…
08 September, 2021
Heat waves
Earthquake-resistant buildings using Thermocol Thermocol could be the material of the future for the construction of Earthquake resistant buildings, with thermal insulation and could also save the energy required to develop construction materials. Researchers at IIT Roorkee have found that thermoacol or Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) is used as a composite material in the core of reinforced concrete sandwiches, and could resist earthquake forces on up to four-storey buildings. The researchers tested a full-scale building and a number of wall elements constructed with thermocol sandwiched between two layers of concrete at the National Seismic Test Facility (NSTF) of the Department of…
24 August, 2021
Earthquake
Rain at the highest point on Greenland for the first time About Greenland Greenland is the world's largest island, located between the Arctic region and Atlantic oceans, east of the Canadian Arctic Archipelago. Greenland's highest mountain Mt. Gunnbjörn is also the highest peak located north of the Arctic Circle. Therefore, it does not just hold the title of being the highest peak in Greenland but is also the highest peak in the Arctic (3694 m/12120 ft). Greenland is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark. Though physiographically a part of the continent of North America, Greenland has been politically…
22 August, 2021
Contemporary climate and other issues
Why in News? Earthquake Observatories in India India is going to have 35 more earthquake Observatories by end of this year and 100 more such Observatories in the next five years. In the last six and a half decades since Independence, the country had only 115 Earthquake Observatories but now, there is going to be a quantum leap in the number of Earthquake Observatories in the country. The Indian subcontinent is considered one of the world's most disaster-prone areas in terms of earthquakes, landslides, cyclones, floods, and tsunamis. What is an Earthquake? An earthquake is a fault that is a sharp…
22 August, 2021
Earthquake
Seismic Mapping of India Read about the Earthquake in India and then click here. A total of ~59% of the land mass of India (covering all states of India) is prone to earthquakes of different intensities. As per the seismic zoning map of the country, the total area is classified into four seismic zones. Zone V is seismically the most active region, while zone II is the least. Approximately, ~ 11% area of the country falls in zone V, ~18% in zone IV, ~ 30% in zone III and remaining in zone II. The National Centre for Seismology under the…
31 July, 2021
Earthquake
The intensity of cyclones in the North Indian Ocean is increasing First, read the comprehensive topic of Cyclones and then read this news. The retention quality will increase exponentially. The intensity of severe cyclonic storms in the North Indian Ocean region has shown an increasing trend in the past four decades, says a recent study by Indian Scientists. The increasing intensity of severe cyclonic storms with major socioeconomic implications was due to atmospheric parameters like Higher relative humidity, especially at mid atmospheric level, Weak vertical wind shear as well as Warm sea surface temperature (SST). This indicates the role…
30 July, 2021
Cyclone
Tropical Cyclones Yaas Definition of a Cyclone Cyclone refers to any spinning storm that rotates around a low-pressure center. The low-pressure centre is also referred to as the 'eye' of the storm, which is well known for being eerily calm compared with the areas under the spinning 'arms' of the storm. You could say that the eye is watching what's going on down below, so it needs a clear path, but the arms are where all the action happens because this is where the storm is throwing out all of its rain and wind. How are cyclones formed? To form…
30 May, 2021
Climatology
China braces for Typhoon In-fa About Tropical Cyclones Definition of a Cyclone Cyclone refers to any spinning storm that rotates around a low-pressure center. The low-pressure centre is also referred to as the 'eye' of the storm, which is well known for being eerily calm compared with the areas under the spinning 'arms' of the storm. You could say that the eye is watching what's going on down below, so it needs a clear path, but the arms are where all the action happens because this is where the storm is throwing out all of its rain and wind. How…
25 July, 2021
Climatology
DBT MOES Polar Research Centre Department of Biotechnology signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) With the Ministry of Earth Sciences To Set up the DBT MOES Polar Research Centre The POLAR region encompassing the Antarctic, Arctic, Southern Ocean and the Himalayas is a unique ecosystem offers a huge amount of interest due to its extreme climate compare to the rest of the world. Although researchers across the globe have contributed to different areas of research, the POLAR region is yet known as an unexplored ecosystem. The MoU envisages mutual collaboration to explore the possibility of cooperation, convergence and synergy to…
15 July, 2021
World Geography
Chilika Lake was a part of the Bay of Bengal: Study According to a study by the National Institute of Oceanography(NIO), Chilika lake was once a part of the Bay of Bengal. Evidences- Archeological Studies: The marine archaeological studies clearly show that the Chilika once was a safe harbour for cargo ships going to Southeast Asia and other parts of the world. Palur Port: Greek geographer Claudius Ptolemy(150 CE) described Palur as an important port of Kalinga and referred to it as ‘Paloura’. This port was situated close to Chilika lake from where ships used to sail directly to Southeast Asia. Stone…
10 April, 2021
Changes in critical geographical features
Non-uniformity of Himalayas foresees significantly large earthquake events Scientists have found that the Himalayas are not uniform and assume different physical and mechanical properties in different directions — a property present in crystals that is called ‘anisotropy’. This could result in significantly large earthquake events in the Himalayas. The northwest region of India, an area covering Garhwal and Himachal Pradesh, has been hit by four destructive moderate to great earthquakes since the beginning of the 20th century — Kangra (1905), Kinnaur (1975), Uttarkashi (1991) and Chamoli (1999). These seismic activities manifest large-scale subsurface deformation and weak zones, underlining the need…
09 April, 2021
Earthquake
While heatwaves are quite common during the summer months, the scorching heatwave hitting parts of western Canada and the US has been particularly devastating – with temperature records shattered and hundreds of people falling victim to the extreme heat. Canada broke its temperature record for a third consecutive day: recording a whopping 49.6°C on 29 June in Lytton, a village northeast of Vancouver, in British Columbia. The persistent heat over parts of western Canada and parts of the US has been caused by a heat dome stretching from California to the Arctic. Temperatures have been easing in coastal areas, but there has…
13 July, 2021
Climatology
Impacts of Desert Dust Particles on Indian Summer Monsoon A new study shows the impacts of desert dust coming from the West, Central, and East Asia in the Indian Summer Monsoon. Impact of Desert Dust Particles on Indian Summer Monsoon: Strong winds carry the dust particles from the Middle East into the atmosphere. Dust particles absorb solar radiation and become extremely hot. This causes heating of the atmosphere. Heat decreases the air pressure and changes wind circulation patterns. Further, it increases the moisture transport capacity of air and increases precipitation and rainfall. This phenomenon is termed an “elevated heat pump”. It is responsible…
05 April, 2021
Climatology
Militarisation of the Arctic The Biden administration is leading a campaign against Russian attempts to assert authority over Arctic shipping and reintroduce a military dimension to discussions over international activity in the area. As Russia assumed the rotating chairmanship of the Arctic Council on Thursday, the U.S. rallied members to oppose Moscow’s plans to set maritime rules in the Northern Sea Route, which runs from Norway to Alaska, and its desire to resume military talks within the eight-nation bloc. Those talks were suspended in 2014 over Russia’s actions in Ukraine. The effort reflects growing concerns in Washington and among some…
21 May, 2021
World Geography
World’s largest iceberg breaks off from Antarctica A huge ice block has broken off from western Antarctica into the Weddell Sea, becoming the largest iceberg in the world and earning the name A-76. It is the latest in a series of large ice blocks to dislodge in a region acutely vulnerable to climate change, although scientists said in this case it appeared to be part of a natural polar cycle. Slightly larger than the Spanish island of Majorca, A-76 had been monitored by scientists since May 13 when it began to separate from the Ronne Ice Shelf, according to the…
21 May, 2021
World Geography
Everything about: the Antarctic Antarctic mapping Read all this from Orient Longman Blackswan Atlas as Ankit Sir teaches in his Mapping classes. Antarctic = Ross Sea, Amundsen Sea, Bellingshausen Sea, Drake Passage, Weddel Sea. Drake Passage/ Antarctic Peninsula is between the Bellingshausen Sea and Weddel Sea. Winson Massif (Ellsworth Mountains) is the highest peak in Antarctica. Bharati, Maitri, and Dakshin Gangotri are in the Antarctic. Lambert glacier is here. Himadri is in the Arctic. About Antarctic region The Antarctic is a polar region around Earth's the South Pole, opposite the Arctic region around the North Pole. Antarctica is defined as all…
09 April, 2021
World Geography
Everything about: the Arctic Arctic mapping Read all this from Orient Longman Blackswan Atlas as Ankit Sir teaches in his Mapping classes. Barent (Kola penin), Kara (Yamal penin), Laptev (Taymyr penin), Eastern Siberian (Kolyma lowland), Chukchi, Beaufort sea (USA, Canada), Gulf of Boothia, Baffin Bay. Lincoln sea is between Denmark and the Arctic. Gunnbjorn Mt is in Denmark. The Denmark Strait is between Greenland (Denmark) and Iceland. Greenland is between the Denmark Strait and the Davis Strait. Arctic Circle only cuts Kola and Chukchi Penin. Also Davis & Denmark Strait. Aleut, Athabaskan, Gwich'in, Inuit, and Saami are the tribes of the…
19 May, 2021
World Geography
Definition of a Cyclone Cyclone refers to any spinning storm that rotates around a low-pressure centre. The low-pressure centre is also referred to as the 'eye' of the storm, which is well known for being eerily calm compared with the areas under the spinning 'arms' of the storm. You could say that the eye is watching what's going on down below, so it needs a clear path, but the arms are where all the action happens because this is where the storm is throwing out all of its rain and wind. How are cyclones formed? To form a cyclone, warm,…
04 December, 2021
Climatology
South West Monsoon in India (Jun, July, Aug, Sep): Definition: It is the seasonal reversal in the wind direction. It is experienced in tropical areas (20°N to 20°S). In India, it is experienced in June, July, August and September. 5 Key players in Monsoon: 1) Differential heating and cooling of land (LP) and Sea (HP) in summer. 2) Northward shifting of ITCZ in July over Ganga plains ITCZ is a low pressure zone located at the equator where trade winds converge. This leads to the formation of thermal low over North and Northwest India. Southeast Trade winds from S hemisphere…
21 September, 2021
Climatology
Everything about: Earthquake What is an Earthquake? A fault is a sharp break in the crustal rocks. When lithospheric plates move, the surface of the Earth vibrates (release of Energy and the Energy waves travel in all directions). An earthquake is the sudden release of the Energy in the Earth’s crust that creates seismic waves. The energy accumulation site is identified w deformed rocks caused by tension or compression. The subterranean spot at which rocks begin to shift/rupture is Focus or Hypocenter of Earthquake, whereas the point vertically over the Focus is Epicenter, which experiences the 1st waves and the greatest damage which decreases…
02 May, 2021
Earthquake
Assam Earthquake What is an Earthquake? An earthquake is a natural event which is caused due to release of energy, which generates waves that travel in all directions. The vibrations called seismic waves are generated from earthquakes that travel through the Earth and are recorded on instruments called seismographs. The location below the earth’s surface where the earthquake starts is called the hypocenter, and the location directly above it on the surface of the earth is called the epicentre. Earthquake zones of India The major reason for the high frequency and intensity of the earthquakes is that the Indian plate…
06 May, 2021
Earthquake
Suez Canal Lakes Due to the blockage of the Suez Canal, the $200 billion of India’s trade flows with Europe, North America and South America is at risk. So, the Department of Commerce has worked out an action plan to cope with the crisis, including possibly re-routing shipments through the Cape of Good Hope (Re-routing may take 15 additional days.) More details on SUEZ CANNEL: https://www.aspireias.com/daily-news-analysis-current-affairs/Suez-Canal-crisis-Past-to-Present MAPPING Suez Canal significant? Suez Canal is a critical shipping artery that connects the Mediterranean and Red Seas through Egypt. It carries over 12% of world trade by volume. A human-made waterway, the Suez…
02 April, 2021
World Geography
ARIES Facility will host the support center for Aditya-L1 Sun’s Atmosphere The atmosphere of the sun is composed of several layers, mainly the photosphere, the chromosphere and the corona. It's in these outer layers that the sun's energy, which has bubbled up from the sun's interior layers, is detected as sunlight. Photosphere The lowest layer of the sun's atmosphere is the photosphere. It is about 300 miles (500 km) thick. This layer is where the sun's energy is released as light. Because of the distance from the sun to Earth, light reaches our planet in about eight minutes. The photosphere…
18 April, 2021
Universe and Solar System
IMD Forecasts for Monsoon 2021 About India Meteorological Department India Meteorological Department was established in 1875. It is the National Meteorological Service of the country and the principal government agency in all matters relating to meteorology, seismology and allied subjects. To take meteorological observations and to provide current and forecast meteorological information for optimum operation of weather-sensitive activities like agriculture, irrigation, shipping, aviation, offshore oil explorations, etc. To warn against severe weather phenomena like tropical cyclones, norwesters, duststorms, heavy rains and snow, cold and heat waves, etc., which cause destruction of life and property. To provide meteorological statistics required for…
17 April, 2021
Climatology
How Asian desert dust enhances Indian summer monsoon Dust swarms can influence moisture transport, increase precipitation, rainfall Carl Sagan once described Earth as a ‘small speck of dust, a seemingly insignificant tiny particle. But the dust has incredible power: it is known to influence monsoons, hurricanes and even fertilize rainforests. A new study now details how dust coming from the deserts in West, Central and East Asia plays an important role in the Indian Summer Monsoon. Reverse effect The researchers also explain how the Indian Summer Monsoon has a reverse effect and can increase the winds in West Asia to…
04 April, 2021
Climatology
Ecuador’s Sangay Volcano Eruption Ecuador’s Sangay volcano erupted and blew clouds of ash as high as 8,500 meters into the sky. About Sangay Volcano: Sangay is an active stratovolcano in central Ecuador. Strato volcanoes are conical volcanoes composed of multiple layers of intermediate lava, ash, and other volcanic debris. Sangay Volcano is located on the eastern edge of the Andes Mountains. The Andes is the longest mountain range in the world and boasts some of the highest peaks. The Andes extend from north to south through seven South American countries: Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina. Sangay Volcano hosts a significant biological…
20 March, 2021
Volcanic Activity
Madden Julian Oscillation It is an eastward moving cyclic weather along the tropics. It influences rainfall, sea surface temperature, and winds. Phases of Madden Julian Oscillation It consists of two phases. Enhanced Rainfall Phase and Suppressed Rainfall Phase. In enhanced Rainfall Phase: winds at the surface of the earth converge to push the air upwards throughout the atmosphere. This rising air increases condensation and rainfall. In Suppressed Rainfall Phase: The winds at the top of the atmosphere converge and forces the air to sink down. As air sinks, it dries and suppresses rainfall. How does Madden Julian Oscillation affect the…
04 November, 2020
Climatology
Data on Indian Soils Alluvial Black Red Forest Laterite Arid/ Desert/ Sandy Alkaline Usar/reh Marshy/ Kari of Kerala % Spread 45.6 16.6 10 8.6 8.5 4.32 _ _ Area (lakh km2) 15 5 3.5 2.85 2.48 1.4 _ _ Deficient in P hm N K P hm N Lime Mg P Hm N Lime P K low in bases N leaching Lime Si Mg K P N Org N _ K P Rich in _ Bases Lime Ca, Fe Al, Mg Magnetite Al Si K(Some parts) Very rich in Humus High fertilizers needed. Fe Al…
20 March, 2021
Biogeography
Slowing Currents in the Gulf Stream The Gulf Stream, together with its northern extension the North Atlantic Drift, is a warm and swift Atlantic ocean current that originates in the Gulf of Mexico and stretches to the tip of Florida. It then follows the eastern coastlines of the United States and Newfoundland before crossing the Atlantic Ocean as the North Atlantic Current. The Gulf Stream system conveys warm surface water from the equator to the north and the deeper cold, low-salinity water down south. It works like a giant conveyor belt. A recent study has revealed the slowing of the Gulf Stream system. Increased rainfall and melting of the Greenland Ice sheet may…
08 March, 2021
Oceanography
Bhashan Char Island Key Facts The Bangladesh Authorities recently moved around 1,750 Rohingya Muslims to a controversial island in the Bay of Bengal called the “Bhashan Char Island”. About Bhashan Char The island is also known as Char Piya. It is in Hatiya Upazila, Bangladesh. The island is located in the Bay of Bengal about 6 kilometres from Sandwip island. How the island was formed? The island was formed in the year 2006 by Himalayan silt. A recent development by Bangladesh on Island The Government of Bangladesh has planned to construct 1,440 buildings on the island & cyclone shelters. The buildings…
23 January, 2021
Current mapping upsc
Glacial Lake Outburst Flooding A glacial lake outburst flooding (GLOF) occurs when a breach in the glacial lake causes a sudden surge downstream. Such lakes are formed when glaciers erode land, melt and over time become a large mass of water in the depression formed, and these can be breached, causing floods downstream. In India the status of glacial lakes is checked by Central Water Commission.
09 February, 2021
Weathering and Erosion
What caused the tilt of Saturn’s rotation axis? The tilt of the rotation axis of the gas giant Saturn may in fact be caused by its moons, scientists from CNRS, Sorbonne University and the University of Pisa have reported (Nature Astronomy). The current tilt of Saturn's rotation axis is caused by the migration of its satellites, and especially by that of its largest moon, Titan. Recent observations have shown that Titan and the other moons are gradually moving away from Saturn much faster than astronomers had previously estimated. By incorporating this into their calculations, the researchers concluded that this process…
31 January, 2021
Universe and Solar System
Tropical cyclones Tropical cyclones across the globe, except Atlantic hurricanes, are moving closer to land in recent decades, a new study found. Tropical cyclones generally have been moving westward by about 30 kilometres per decade since 1982, putting them closer to land and making them more dangerous, a study published in Science said. Each decade since the 1980s, an additional two cyclones have come within 200 kilometres of land, the study said. Ominous trends Researchers do not quite know why this is happening, but it adds to other ominous trends in cyclone activity. Past studies have found that the most…
31 January, 2021
Climatology
New Monsoon Forecast Model The India Meteorological Department (IMD) may introduce new monsoon models this year to better forecast changes in rainfall. The monsoon that concluded in 2020 was unique, in that with monsoon 2019, it was only the third time in a century that India saw back-to-back years of above normal rainfall. In both years — and monsoon 2019 was a 25-year high — the IMD failed to forecast the magnitude of the excess and only indicated that the monsoon would be “above normal”. D.S. Pai, who heads the IMD’s Climate Research Services, Pune, said in his talk there…
21 September, 2021
Climatology
Mukundpura meteorite On June 6, 2017, at around 5 a.m., residents of Mukundpura village near Jaipur saw a bright trail in the sky followed by a thunderous sound. They spotted a burning object with a sulphur smell on the soft agricultural land. The meteorite broke into several fragments, but a pit of about 15 cm in diameter and 10 cm in depth was formed at the impact site. The local police immediately collected it and handed it over to the Geological Survey of India, Kolkata. Now, a new study has shed light on the mineralogy of the meteorite. Carbonaceous chondrite…
10 January, 2021
Geomorphology
Indonesia Jet missing A jet carrying 62 people lost contact with air traffic controllers minutes after taking off from Indonesia’s capital Jakarta on a domestic flight on Saturday. Officials were examining debris found by fishermen to see if it was from the missing plane. The plane was carrying 50 passengers and 12 crew members, all Indonesian nationals. #joinourtelegram# Reason for the missing Indonesia jet: Thunderstorms What are Thunderstorms? A lightning or electrical storm is known as a thunderstorm. It is characterized by lightning and thunder. Thunderstorms produce strong winds, heavy rainfalls, and even produce snowfall and hail. Some of thunderstorms…
10 January, 2021
Thunderstorms
Iran and South Korea Iran warned on Monday its seizure of a South Korean tanker in the Gulf must not be politicised after the U.S. and France urged the Islamic Republic to release the ship. “We have repeatedly told... the intervening parties, whether they are the United States or France, that the case does not concern them at all and that they will not help to solve a technical problem if they politicise it,” said Foreign Ministry spokesman Saeed Khatibzadeh. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps seized the Hankuk Chemi and arrested its multinational crew of 20 near the strategic Strait…
What is a Christmas Star? After nearly 400 years, Saturn and Jupiter will be brought closest in the night sky by an astronomical event called the “great conjunction” popularly referred to as the “Christmas Star”. A conjunction is a name given to any event where planets or asteroids appear to be very close together in the sky when viewed from the Earth. Astronomers use the term great conjunction to describe meetings of the two biggest planets in the solar system, Jupiter and Saturn. The Great Conjunction happens once in about 20 years because of the time each of the planets…
23 December, 2020
World Geography
Cyclone Nivar Why in News? Recently, the tropical cyclone Nivar made landfall along the Tamil Nadu- Puducherry coast. Landfall refers to the phenomenon of a cyclone’s outer wall moving over the coastline and beyond. Key Points Tropical Cyclone: A tropical cyclone is an intense circular storm that originates over warm tropical oceans and is characterized by low atmospheric pressure, high winds, and heavy rain. A characteristic feature of tropical cyclones is the eye, a central region of clear skies, warm temperatures, and low atmospheric pressure. Storms of this type are called hurricanes in the North Atlantic and eastern Pacific and…
26 November, 2020
Cyclone
Subdued Northeast Monsoon Rainfall over the southern peninsular region has been deficient so far, indicating that the northeast monsoon has remained subdued this year. Significance: Pattern of Rainfall in India: India receives rainfall during two seasons: About 75% of the country’s annual rainfall is received from the Southwest monsoon between June and September. The Northeast monsoon occurs during October to December, and is a comparatively small-scale monsoon, which is confined to the Southern peninsula. It is called the winter monsoon. Northeast Monsoon and Rainfall: After the complete withdrawal of the Southwest monsoon from the country takes place by mid-October, the…
21 September, 2021
Climatology
A Himalayan zone is Tectonically Active Recently, a group of scientists from the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology (WIHG), Dehradun have found that the Indus-Tsangpo Suture Zone (ITSZ) of Himalayas tectonically active. What is a Suture zone? A suture zone is a linear belt of intense deformation, where distinct terranes or tectonic units with different plate tectonic, metamorphic, and paleogeographic histories join together. These zones also provide the only record of deep oceanic crust and of ancient seafloor processes for roughly the first 90% of Earth’s history. Their study provides a means to understand the end-product of plate tectonic processes…
28 October, 2020
Geomorphology
Important Facts of Kerala Capital Thiruvananthapuram or Trivandrum Date of Formation November 01, 1956 State Boundaries Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Puducherry (Mahe) Number of Districts 14 State Animal Elephant State Bird Great Indian Hornbill State Flower Kanikonna or Indian laburnum or amaltus State Tree Coconut Official Language Malayalam Major cities Kochi, Kozhikode, Kollam and Thrissur Festivals Onam, Thrissur Pooram, Sabarimala, Theyyam, Payippad Jelotsavam Dances Chavittunatakam, Kathakali, Kolkli, Koothu, Kutiyattam, Theyyam, Thirvathirakali, Ottamthullal, Chakyar Koothu, Mohiniyattam Hill Station Munnar UNESCO sites Nilgiri, Agasthyamalai, Western Ghats Physical division Nilgiri – Anamalai – Cardamon (North to South) Beaches Alappuzha Beach Cherai Beach Kovalam Kozhikode…
28 October, 2020
Current mapping upsc
Monsoon decided the history of the Indian subcontinent A recent study by researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur (IITKGP) has revealed that abrupt changes in the Indian monsoon in the last 900 years decided the course of human history in the sub-continent. A paper titled “Abrupt changes in Indian summer monsoon strength during the last 900 years and their linkages to socio-economic conditions in the Indian subcontinent” by Anil K. Gupta, professor at the geology and geophysics department of IITKGP, highlights that decline of Indian dynasties was linked to weak monsoon and reduced food production. Several dynasties, such…
21 September, 2021
Climatology
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