Setiap Hari Turun Hujan, Ini Desa Paling Basah di Dunia

Summary

Mawsynram, a village in the Meghalaya state of India, is known as the wettest place on Earth due to its extreme rainfall, with an annual average of 11,871 mm. Located near Bangladesh and the Bay of Bengal, the region experiences heavy, long monsoon seasons. The villagers are accustomed to the relentless rain, using traditional bamboo and banana leaf rain shields and umbrellas to protect themselves. Despite the constant downpours, daily life continues, with markets and shops open, and people going about their business. The area's persistent humidity and cold have shaped the unique lifestyle and culture of its 4,000 residents.

Takeaways

• 😀 The village of Mawsynram, located in Meghalaya, India, is known as the wettest place on Earth due to its high rainfall.
• 😀 Mawsynram receives an annual rainfall of approximately 11,871 mm, making it one of the rainiest places on the planet.
• 😀 The village is situated in the foothills of the Khasi Hills, at an altitude of 1,400 meters above sea level.
• 😀 Mawsynram's location near Bangladesh and the Bay of Bengal contributes to the heavy rainfall caused by the accumulation of water vapor.
• 😀 The village experiences continuous rainfall, sometimes for weeks, and residents rarely see the sun during the monsoon season.
• 😀 Traditional rain shields made of bamboo and banana leaves, known as 'noob noob,' are worn by locals to protect themselves from heavy rain.
• 😀 Umbrellas are an essential item for everyone in the village due to the constant rainfall.
• 😀 The highest rainfall occurs from June to September, when the village remains perpetually wet and cloudy, even during the daytime.
• 😀 Despite the rain, the village's economy continues as usual, with markets and shops remaining open, and people going about their daily routines.
• 😀 Due to the constant wet conditions, drying clothes outside is futile, so residents use electric heaters to dry their laundry indoors.

Q & A

Why is Mousinram village known as the wettest place on Earth?

Mousinram is known as the wettest place on Earth because it experiences extremely high levels of rainfall, with an average annual rainfall of 11,871 mm. This is due to its geographical location near Bangladesh and the Bay of Bengal, which results in heavy and prolonged monsoon rains.

What is the significance of the rainfall pattern in Mousinram?

The rainfall in Mousinram is exceptionally frequent and intense, with the village often not seeing the sun for weeks at a time. This constant rain makes the village one of the most unique and challenging places to live, with continuous wet conditions throughout the year.

What role does the Bay of Bengal play in the high rainfall in Mousinram?

The Bay of Bengal contributes to the high rainfall in Mousinram by providing a constant supply of water vapor. This vapor accumulates and leads to heavy rains, especially during the monsoon season, from June to September, resulting in the village's high rainfall totals.

What are some of the challenges faced by the people of Mousinram due to the constant rainfall?

The constant rainfall in Mousinram leads to challenges such as difficulty in drying clothes, limited sunlight, and a generally damp living environment. People have to use electric dryers to dry clothes, and the persistent wet conditions can cause feelings of boredom and sleepiness.

How do people in Mousinram adapt to the heavy rainfall?

People in Mousinram have adapted to the heavy rainfall by wearing traditional rain shields called 'noob noob,' made from bamboo and banana leaves. These shields protect them from heavy rains and strong winds. Additionally, umbrellas are a must-have item for everyone.

What is the cultural significance of the traditional rain shields in Mousinram?

The traditional rain shields, called 'noob noob,' hold cultural significance in Mousinram as they represent the locals' ingenuity and resourcefulness. They are specifically designed to shield farmers while they work in the fields, offering complete protection from the rain and wind.

How does the village's weather affect daily life in Mousinram?

Despite the continuous rain, daily life in Mousinram goes on. People still work, shop, and engage in other activities. However, due to the constant rain, the roads remain wet, markets are often flooded, and people's clothes and goods can get drenched despite makeshift coverings.

What impact does the weather have on businesses in Mousinram?

The weather in Mousinram limits certain businesses, such as ice cream vendors or air conditioning companies, as the rain and cold weather make such products unappealing. However, businesses selling hot food, such as soups or stews, are more suited to the local climate.

How has Mousinram evolved over the years in terms of infrastructure?

Mousinram has evolved significantly over the years. Thirty years ago, the village lacked proper roads and electricity, making life during the rainy season difficult. Today, the village has improved infrastructure, which has made life more manageable despite the challenges posed by the weather.

What is the average annual rainfall in Mousinram, and how does it compare to other places?

Mousinram receives an average of 11,871 mm of rainfall annually, which is one of the highest in the world. This amount of rainfall is enough to submerge a 30-meter tall statue, like the Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in water.