Why Missouri Seems So Drenched: Understanding Its Rainfall Patterns

It often feels like it rains endlessly in Missouri, but the truth is that it doesn’t. Despite the frequent showers, Missouri doesn’t really belong among the states with the highest annual rainfall. In fact, it ranks at number 26, making it relatively average compared to the larger states. This article aims to demystify the rain in Missouri, exploring the reasons behind its frequent showers and how it compares to other states.

The Top 10 States with the Highest Annual Rainfall

The states with the highest annual rainfall in the United States are a mix of coastal, tropical, and island states. Here is the list of the top 10 states that get the most rain each year:

Louisiana: 59.15 inches Mississippi: 56.48 inches Alabama: 56.00 inches Florida: 54.73 inches Tennessee: 51.85 inches Hawaii: 50.33 inches Georgia: 50.22 inches Connecticut: 50.07 inches Rhode Island: 49.96 inches Arkansas: 49.72 inches

It is important to note that while Missouri doesn’t rank among the top states for rainfall, its climate still often feels wet due to frequent thunderstorms and high humidity.

Geography and Climate of Missouri

Missouri’s geography is primarily responsible for the wet weather it experiences. According to climate data, only certain parts of Missouri receive significant rainfall. The northern and western parts, bordering Iowa and Kansas, are classified more as steppes with fewer trees, typical of the Great Plains. In contrast, the rest of the state is characterized as being more humid, with dense forest cover, decent-sized rivers, and frequent thunderstorms.

Despite the frequent showers, Missouri is far from an arid desert. The southeastern part of the state, near the border with Tennessee, sees over 55 inches of rain annually, which could be considered a temperate rainforest, though there is no specific generally accepted definition for such a climate.

The Role of Climate Types

Missouri falls under the Cfa and Dfa climate types according to the K?ppen climate classification system. These climate types indicate temperate and semi-arid conditions, respectively. The Trewartha climate classification for Missouri is predominantly Dc and Do, with small pockets of Cf near the Arkansas and Tennessee borders, indicating a humid sub-tropical climate with a dry winter.

The humidity levels in Missouri are significantly influenced by its forests, the periodic movement of the jet stream in winter, and the rainforests in nearby states like Arkansas and Tennessee. The southern border lacks mountains, which otherwise would obstruct the moisture-laden air from the Gulf of Mexico.

Conclusion

While Missouri doesn’t rank as one of the states with the highest annual rainfall, its frequent showers and humid climate often give it a reputation for being soggy. Understanding the reasons behind its rainfall patterns can help in better managing the region’s weather-related challenges.