Average annual amount of rainfall in tropical climatic region remains between 125 to 250 milimeter which varies seasonaly
The wettest places on Earth, Mawsynram and nearby Cherrapunji in India, are known for their lush greenery and visited by tourists from around the world.
Precipitation can be defined as various forms of water (solid or liquid) that form in the atmosphere and fall upon an area’s surface. Precipitation is influenced by a number of factors including the presence of landforms, proximity to water bodies, elevation, latitude, and water currents. Landforms such as mountains prevent heavy rain clouds from traveling out of a region thus causing rainfall concentration on that particular area. Wind currents from water-bodies and high elevations from sea level also influence precipitation patterns.
Mawsynram, located in the Meghalaya State in India, is the wettest place in the world, with an annual rainfall of 11,871 millimeters. The large volume of rain is caused by the Himalayas Ranges blocking heavy clouds’ escape to the North. The region’s rainfall rises to 12 meters, making the area home to rivers and waterfalls. The dwellers of Mawsynram have adapted to the wet conditions and never leave the house without an umbrella. The residents make basket-like covers with reeds, to block out the rain as they work in the fields. The villagers make use of grass as soundproof for their huts. The drier periods in the region are considered to be between December and January when the rainfall can amount to a mere 60 millimeters.
Cherrapunji, India
15 kilometers from Mawsynram is the second wettest place in the world. Cherrapunji receives an annual rainfall of 11,777 millimeters and is also located in India's Meghalaya State. The region stands at 4500 feet above sea level on the Khasi Hills, and receives its rainfall from the Monsoon winds traveling from the Bay of Bengal. The region is characterized by the monsoon season with varying amounts of rainfall per month. During the summer season, temperatures get as high as 23 Degrees Celsius and as low as seven degrees Celsius in the winter months. Perhaps Cherrapunji is mostly famed for its live Root Bridges, strong enough to hold about 50 people at once and the products of villager’s bioengineering efforts.
Tutendo, Colombia
Tutendo is found in the nation of Colombia in South America, and receives an annual rainfall of 11,770 millimeters. Tutendo has two rainy seasons and has a small population, less than 1,000 people. The small number of inhabitants in the region erect houses roofed with water-proof sheets to prevent leakages. The city of Quibdo lies nearby and is one of the wettest cities in the world.