Explanations:The question asks for the place among the given options that experiences the highest average annual rainfall. To understand this, we need to consider the geographical and climatic factors that influence rainfall in each of these cities.
Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, is located in the northeastern part of India, specifically in the Khasi Hills. The city is known for its extremely high rainfall, which is primarily due to its geographical location and the influence of the monsoon winds. The Khasi Hills are part of the Eastern Himalayan range, and the city is situated at an elevation of about 1,500 meters above sea level. This elevation, combined with the city's location in the path of the monsoon winds, results in a high amount of precipitation. Shillong's average annual rainfall is approximately 11,871 mm, making it one of the wettest places on Earth.
Chennai, located in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, has a tropical climate with a hot and humid environment. The city experiences two monsoon seasons: the northeast monsoon and the southwest monsoon. However, its average annual rainfall is significantly lower than Shillong's, at around 1,200 mm. Chennai's rainfall is influenced by the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea monsoons, but it does not receive the same level of precipitation as Shillong due to its lower elevation and different geographical location.
Kolkata, situated in the eastern state of West Bengal, has a humid subtropical climate with a distinct monsoon season. The city experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon months, but its average annual rainfall is around 1,582 mm. Kolkata's rainfall is influenced by the Bay of Bengal monsoon, but it is still lower than Shillong's due to its lower elevation and different geographical location.
Thiruvananthapuram, located in the southern state of Kerala, has a tropical wet climate with high humidity and significant rainfall, especially during the monsoon season. The city's average annual rainfall is around 1,600 mm, which is influenced by the Arabian Sea monsoon. However, this is still lower than Shillong's average annual rainfall.
Therefore, among the given options, Shillong has the highest average annual rainfall, making it the correct answer to the question.