Nestled along the western coast of India, the Western Ghats form a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its unparalleled biodiversity and unique climatic conditions. This mountain range, stretching over 1,600 kilometers, plays a crucial role in influencing the weather patterns of the Indian subcontinent.
Geographic Overview
The Western Ghats, also known as the Sahyadri Range, run parallel to the Arabian Sea, covering six states in India. The range’s elevation varies from sea level to over 2,600 meters, contributing to a diverse array of climates within the region.
Monsoons: A Lifeline of the Western Ghats
The Western Ghats experience a significant influence from the southwest and northeast monsoons. The southwest monsoon, from June to September, brings heavy rainfall, vital for the lush greenery and diverse ecosystems. On the other hand, the northeast monsoon, from October to December, affects the eastern slopes of the Western Ghats, contributing to the overall precipitation.
Rainfall Patterns
The rainfall in the Western Ghats is characterized by high variability. The windward side, facing the Arabian Sea, receives abundant rainfall due to orographic lifting. For instance, locations like Mahabaleshwar in Maharashtra and Agumbe in Karnataka are among the wettest places in India, receiving an average annual rainfall exceeding 5,000 mm.
On the leeward side, the rain shadow effect occurs, resulting in drier conditions. Cities like Coimbatore and Dindigul in Tamil Nadu experience significantly lower rainfall compared to their counterparts on the windward side.
Temperature Variations
The Western Ghats exhibit a diverse range of temperatures influenced by altitude and proximity to the coast. Coastal areas maintain relatively stable temperatures throughout the year, while higher elevations experience cooler conditions. For instance, Munnar in Kerala, situated at an elevation of around 1,600 meters, enjoys a cooler climate compared to the coastal city of Mangalore.
Biodiversity Hotspot
The unique climate of the Western Ghats contributes to its status as one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. The region hosts a plethora of flora and fauna, many of which are endemic. The dense evergreen forests, shola grasslands, and montane rainforests are home to several endangered species, including the Malabar Giant Squirrel and the Nilgiri Tahr.
Impact of Climate Change
The Western Ghats, despite their ecological importance, face the looming threat of climate change. Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns can disrupt the delicate balance of ecosystems, leading to the loss of biodiversity. Increased human activities, deforestation, and urbanization further exacerbate these challenges.
Key Data
To illustrate the climatic conditions of the Western Ghats, the following table presents key data for selected locations:
| Location | Average Annual Rainfall (mm) | Average Temperature (°C) |
| Mahabaleshwar | 5,387 | 18.5 |
| Agumbe | 7,620 | 22.5 |
| Coimbatore | 629 | 28.0 |
| Munnar | 2,682 | 19.0 |
The climate of the Western Ghats is a complex interplay of monsoons, elevation, and proximity to the coast. This unique combination has fostered an environment that supports a remarkable diversity of life. However, as climate change poses a threat to ecosystems worldwide, it becomes imperative to safeguard the Western Ghats and its rich biodiversity.
