Geography – 4. Geographical skills and investigations | e-Consult

(a) Pattern of Rainfall: The graph shows a fluctuating pattern of rainfall over the 30-year period. There are periods of high rainfall (around 900-1000 mm) interspersed with periods of lower rainfall (around 700-800 mm). The rainfall does not show a consistent increasing or decreasing trend. There appears to be a cyclical pattern, with peaks and troughs occurring at irregular intervals.

(b) Possible Reasons for Rainfall Pattern: Two possible reasons for this pattern could be:

• La Niña/El Niño events: These climate patterns can significantly affect rainfall distribution globally. La Niña often brings drier conditions to some regions, while El Niño can bring wetter conditions.
• Prevailing Wind Patterns: Changes in the prevailing wind patterns, which bring moisture to the region, can lead to variations in rainfall. Shifts in the position of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) can also influence rainfall.

(c) Effect on Agriculture: This fluctuating rainfall pattern would have a significant impact on agriculture. Periods of low rainfall would lead to drought conditions, resulting in crop failure and reduced yields. Farmers would need to rely on irrigation, which can be expensive and unsustainable. Conversely, periods of high rainfall could lead to flooding, damaging crops and infrastructure. Farmers would need to adapt their farming practices, potentially choosing drought-resistant crops or implementing water conservation techniques. The uncertainty in rainfall would also make it difficult for farmers to plan their planting and harvesting schedules.