Give the characteristics and effects of the monsoon rainfall in India.

(i)Most of the rain is received from South West summer monsoons during the period mid-June to mid-September. It is seasonal rainfall.

(ii)Summer rainfall is quite uncertain. Some times monsoons start early resulting in floods. Often the on-set of monsoons is delayed resulting in drought. The early or late retreat of monsoons also result in serious droughts.

(iii)The rainfall is unevenly distributed over the country. About 10% of the country gets more than 200 cms. of rain while 25% of the country gets less than 75 cms. of rain. Summer rain is characterised by breaks or dry spells.

(iv)Indian rainfall is heavy and downpouring type. It is often said, “It pours, it never rains in India.” Most of the areas have variable rainfall, as much as 30 cms. plus or minus. Due to variability in areas of low rain, famines result.

(v)The amount of rainfall is determined by the presence of mountains. High mountains force monsoons to rise and give rain.