Why Meghalaya's Wettest Towns Face Growing Drought Risks
Why Meghalaya's Wettest Towns Face Growing Drought Risks
Mawsynram · Published Sep 25, 2026
• Despite being among the world's wettest places, Mawsynram and Cherrapunji in Meghalaya are increasingly vulnerable to drought due to changing rainfall patterns and rising temperatures.

Changing Rainfall Patterns and Drought Risk

The study found that rainfall in Meghalaya is becoming concentrated in intense bursts, while light rain and the number of rainy days are declining. This trend reduces groundwater recharge, as heavy rain leads to rapid surface runoff instead of soaking into the soil. Rising temperatures further exacerbate the issue by increasing evapotranspiration, which speeds up water loss from soil and vegetation during dry periods.

Related News