Moisture Supply From the Western Ghats Forests to Water Deficit East Coast of India

Evapotranspiration from the Western Ghats forests contributes significantly to southwest monsoon rainfall over Tamil Nadu, accounting for 25–40% of precipitation during normal years and up to 50% during water-deficit periods or dry spells. This finding highlights the critical role of the region's dense vegetation in sustaining water availability on India's east coast, which faces severe water scarcity. The study employed regional climate simulations using the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model to quantify this moisture supply mechanism. Recent deforestation in the Western Ghats not only threatens biodiversity but also risks exacerbating water shortages across Peninsular India.

Paul, S., Ghosh, S., Rajendran, K., & Murtugudde, R. (2018). Moisture Supply From the Western Ghats Forests to Water Deficit East Coast of India. Geophysical Research Letters, 45(9), 4337–4344. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1029/2018gl078198