Most parts of India do not receive rainfall in the winter season because during this time, the winds blow from the land to the sea (northeast monsoon winds). Since these winds originate over the land and have anti-cyclonic circulation, they are dry and do not carry much moisture. As a result, they do not cause significant rainfall in most parts of the country.
Two regions that receive winter rainfall are:
- Punjab — Punjab receives rainfall from Western Disturbances (temperate cyclones) that originate from the Mediterranean Sea.
- Tamil Nadu — Tamil Nadu receives rainfall from the North East Monsoon Winds. These winds pick up moisture while blowing over the Bay of Bengal and bring rainfall to Tamil Nadu.