Characteristics of Monthly Climate Extremes in High Fire Frequency Biogeographic Zones of India

Abstract. Forest fires are significantly influenced by climatic extremes, with variability in temperature and precipitation creating conducive conditions. India's diverse biogeographic zones, from tropical deciduous to montane ecosystems, display distinct fire regimes shaped by ecological, topographical, and climatic factors. This study investigates monthly climate indices across India's biogeographic zones experiencing extremely high forest fire frequencies (2003-2022). Four biogeographical provinces, representing subdivisions of larger biogeographical zones: North East Hill, North West Himalaya, Western Ghats, and Eastern Highlands were analysed using standardized indices recommended by the Expert Team on Climate Change Detection and Indices ETCCDI: Monthly Maximum Temperature (TXx), Monthly Minimum Temperature (TNx), Consecutive Wet Days (CWD), and Consecutive Dry Days (CDD). Results indicate distinct climatic patterns between February and June. The North East Hill region shows moderate dry conditions peaking in March, decreasing sharply due to pre-monsoon rainfall, with temperatures peaking (32-33 °C) in April. North West Himalaya experiences consistent dry periods (13-14 days), maximum temperatures in May (35-37 °C), and notable night-time warming. The Western Ghats experience extended dry spells and peak temperatures (45-47 °C in April), transitioning quickly with monsoon onset in June. The Eastern Highlands exhibit peak dryness in March and temperature extremes (43 °C) in April. These climatic transitions from dry-hot conditions to monsoon-driven rainfall significantly modulate seasonal forest fire risks. Understanding these patterns is crucial for developing adaptive, region-specific fire management strategies.