World Distribution of Rainfall

Different regions of the world experience varying amounts of rainfall throughout the year and across different seasons.

Generally, as we move away from the equator towards the poles, rainfall gradually decreases. Coastal areas typically receive more rainfall compared to inland regions due to their proximity to large bodies of water, which serve as significant moisture sources.

Between the latitudes of 35° and 40° North and South of the equator, rainfall is heavier on eastern coasts and decreases towards the west. However, between 45° and 65° North and South of the equator, rainfall is initially higher on the western margins of continents due to the influence of westerly winds, gradually decreasing towards the east. In regions where mountains run parallel to the coast, rainfall is greater on the windward side of the mountains, decreasing on the leeward side.

Precipitation regimes across the world can be categorized based on the total annual precipitation:

1. Equatorial regions, windward slopes of mountains along western coasts in cool temperate zones, and coastal areas experiencing monsoons receive heavy rainfall exceeding 200 cm annually.
2. Interior continental areas receive moderate rainfall ranging from 100 to 200 cm annually.
3. Coastal areas of continents receive a moderate amount of rainfall.
4. Central parts of tropical regions and eastern and interior parts of temperate lands receive rainfall ranging between 50 and 100 cm annually.
5. Areas located in the rain shadow zone of continental interiors and high latitudes receive very low rainfall, typically less than 50 cm annually.

The seasonal distribution of rainfall also plays a crucial role. In some regions, rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, such as in the equatorial belt and western parts of cool temperate regions.

Also Read:

1. Rainfall in India
2. Trapping Rain Water
3. Humidity And Precipitation
4. Which region receives Heavy Rainfall in India?
5. Which winds bring rainfall in India? Why is it so important?

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