Explain mistral and loo winds.

(a) Mistral : Mistral is a cold and dry wind. It blows from higher lands to the Mediterranean coast of France. It moves through the Rhone valley. It blows with a high velocity. Its speed is more than 60 km per hour. Hence, the gardens and orchards have to be protected from it by thick hedges of cyprus trees. The smaller houses have their doors on the opposite side of the mistral, so that they can save themselves from cold. It is very cold and a dry wind. It reduces the temperature below freezing point.

(b) Loo : Loo winds are hot and dry surface winds. They move in the northern plains of India during summer season especially in the months of May and June. They move from west to east. They cause loss of lives in the plains of Bihar and U.P.