As one of the southern districts of Tamil Nadu, Cuddalore boasts a diverse terrain spanning from hills to plains, which makes it one of the most habitable regions of the state. However, the district is also one of the most water-dependent areas of Tamil Nadu due to its dependence on agriculture and fisheries. Hence, rainfall becomes a crucial factor in the prosperity of the district.
The district witnesses heavy to moderate rainfall during the south-west monsoon season (June-September) and north-east monsoon season (October-December). The northeast monsoon season, which contributes nearly 80% of the annual rainfall in the district, is a significant lifeline for the agriculture segment and provides sustenance for the livelihood of the local people. In contrast, the south-west monsoon is vital only for the recharge of groundwater and occasional irrigational purposes.
The average rainfall of the district is around 1306 mm per annum, with an average of 22 rainy days in a month. The rainfall pattern in the district displays a diverse deviation across different areas. The eastern region of Cuddalore, which abuts the Bay of Bengal’s coast, receives comparatively higher rainfall than other parts, with an average of around 1750 mm. The central parts of the district receive around 1080 mm of rainfall, while the western regions receive relatively lower rainfall around 950 mm per annum.
In 2020, the district received an average rainfall of 1945 mm, which was far above the average rainfall of the district. The north-east monsoon contributed most of the rainfall, which was around 1712 mm, while the south-west monsoon contributed 233 mm of cumulative rainfall. The rainfall received in the year 2020 was crucial in reviving the district’s agriculture sector, which was otherwise facing a considerable drought-like situation.
In conclusion, the rainfall in Cuddalore is vital for the district’s livelihood and prosperity, serving as a critical lifeline for farmers and agriculturists. While the district experiences significant rainfall, the deviation in the pattern across different regions highlights the need for a regional-specific approach in water management and sustainability.