Agumbe Loses Rainfall Crown to Other Karnataka Towns

September 21, 2023

Agumbe Rainforest Complex (ARC) in Karnataka, famed for its high rainfall, has seen a decline in its monsoon rainfall over the past two years, resulting in it losing its crown to lesser-known towns in Udupi district.

What has been the historical significance of Agumbe Rainforest Complex (ARC)?

Agumbe Rainforest Complex, located in Karnataka, has been historically known for its exceptional rainfall and was often referred to as the ‘Cherrapunji of the South.’ It gained recognition for receiving over 8,000 mm of rainfall during the monsoon.

Why has Agumbe been losing its status as a high-rainfall area in recent years?

While ARC received its peak rainfall of around 6,000 mm during the monsoon months of June and August in the past, recent years have seen this peak rainfall drop to a range of 5,250 mm to 5,500 mm. Some towns, such as Nadpal and Mudradi, located 45-50 kilometers away from ARC, have recorded higher rainfall in 2022, pushing Agumbe to the third position in terms of rainfall in Karnataka. The installation of new rain gauges in various locations has contributed to more accurate rainfall measurements.

What factors have contributed to other towns receiving higher rainfall than Agumbe in recent years?

Several places in the Western Ghats have been receiving more rain than Agumbe in the past. Many of these places installed their own rain gauges in 2022, which started providing more accurate rainfall measurements, contributing to their higher recorded rainfall.

What were the rainfall figures for Agumbe and other towns in Karnataka in 2022?

In 2022, Agumbe received 6,251.5 mm of rain. However, Nadpal recorded 6,391.8 mm of rainfall, pushing Agumbe to second place, and Hulikal in Hassan district received 6,422.9 mm, placing Agumbe third in terms of rainfall in the state.

How has the changing rainfall pattern in Agumbe impacted its ecosystem and research activities?

Agumbe’s rainfall is vital for sustaining water bodies and rivers originating in the Western Ghats. It also supports research activities, including biodiversity and hydrological studies. Rain is essential for bamboo groves in the area, which serve as habitats for King Cobras. Without adequate rainfall, these groves perish, affecting the local ecosystem and research efforts.

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