and power generation. Other rivers
running through the state dry up during part of
the year, as a result of the rain shadow effect
of the hills. The climate is essentially tropical,
with the plains being hotter than the uplands.
During the October to December, in the monsoon season,
the coastal area often suffers severe damage from
cyclones sweeping in from the eastern Indian Ocean.
Rainfall averages between about 630 mm and 1,900
mm (25-75 in) a year. The hilly regions tend to receive
most of the rains. Tamil Nadu, on the whole, is much
drier than Kerala to its west. |
