Why do floods often damage eastern Uttar Pradesh?

Flooding in eastern Uttar Pradesh is primarily driven by the region's monsoon climate and the hydrology of its river systems.

Climate and Rainfall

The state experiences a tropical monsoon climate where approximately 90 percent of its annual precipitation occurs during the southwest monsoon season, from June to September. Eastern Uttar Pradesh receives significantly higher rainfall—ranging from 40 to 80 inches (1,000–2,000 mm)—compared to the western part of the state. This high concentration of rainfall within a four-month period frequently leads to recurring floods that cause significant damage to property and crops.1

River Hydrology

The region's susceptibility to flooding is exacerbated by its river networks, such as the Ghaghara River. The hydrology of these rivers is heavily influenced by both the summer monsoon rains and glacial melt from the Himalayas. Because both the monsoon rains and peak glacial melt occur during the same summer period, the volume of water in these rivers increases dramatically, often overwhelming the alluvial plain and contributing to severe flooding in the eastern districts.2