Which of the following Indian cities receives less rainfall during the monsoon due to its location on the leeward side?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
Answer — (2) Pune.
Explanation —
The Western Ghats, situated along India's western coast, act as a major geographical barrier to the Arabian Sea branch of the Southwest Monsoon. When moisture-laden monsoon winds strike the Western Ghats, they are forced to rise along the slopes of the mountains. As the air rises, it cools down, leading to condensation and resulting in heavy rainfall on the windward side of the mountains. Mumbai is situated on this very side; hence, it receives excessive rainfall.
As these winds cross the Western Ghats and descend on the other side, they warm up while subsiding, and their moisture-holding capacity increases; consequently, rainfall is minimal or entirely absent. This region is known as the 'rain-shadow region' or the leeward side. Pune is located within this region. This is the reason why, despite the short distance between Mumbai and Pune, Pune receives significantly less rainfall compared to Mumbai. This serves as an excellent example of orographic rainfall.
Additional Points —
Mumbai: It is situated on the Konkan coast, on the windward side, where the annual rainfall exceeds approximately 2000 mm.
Cherrapunji: It is located on the windward side of the Khasi Hills in Meghalaya, making it one of the wettest places in the world.
Mapusa (Goa): It is situated in a coastal region and receives heavy rainfall during the monsoon season.
Potential Exam Questions and Answers —
Question: Why do the eastern slopes of the Western Ghats receive less rainfall compared to the western slopes?
Answer: Because the eastern slopes fall within the 'rain-shadow region.'
Question: Which branch of the monsoon brings rainfall to the Western Ghats in Peninsular India?
Answer: The Arabian Sea branch of the Southwest Monsoon.