Which of the following is a term for the common local wind that blows in north and north-western parts of India during summers?

The correct answer is Loo.

Let us understand why Loo is the correct term and how it differs from the other options listed.

What is the Loo?
The Loo is a strong, hot, and dry wind that blows during the summer months (typically from May to June) over the plains of north and north-western India, as well as parts of Pakistan. It originates from the hot desert regions of Rajasthan and the Thar Desert, and blows in a predominantly westerly or north-westerly direction across the Indo-Gangetic Plains.

Characteristics of the Loo:
- Temperature can soar as high as 45°C to 48°C
- It is extremely dry and dusty
- It blows strongly during the afternoon hours
- Prolonged exposure can cause heatstroke and dehydration in humans and animals
- It is classified as a local wind — meaning it is specific to a particular geographic region

Why the other options are incorrect:

Bora — This is a cold, dry, northerly wind that blows in the Adriatic Sea region (particularly along the coasts of Croatia and Slovenia in Europe). It has nothing to do with India.

Foehn — This is a warm, dry wind that descends on the leeward side of the Alps in central Europe (especially Switzerland and Austria). It is a classic example of an orographic or mountain-related local wind.

Chinook — This is a warm, dry wind that blows down the eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains in North America (particularly in the USA and Canada). It is sometimes called the "snow eater" because it causes rapid snowmelt.

Summary Table of Local Winds:

Therefore, among all the given options, Loo is the only local wind that is specifically associated with the north and north-western parts of India during summers, making it the correct answer.