Some people love the sound of rain and the earthy smell it brings, while others would steer clear of a rainy day at all costs. It’s the same story in the U.S. – some states get drenched in rainfall, while others barely see a drizzle.
For the rainiest states in the country, downpours are a part of daily life, and umbrellas are a wardrobe staple. These wettest states are typically receivers of the North American Monsoon System, which brings intense storms between July and September. Wherever the rain comes from, it leaves these states lush and teeming with biodiversity.
7. Georgia (50.22 inches)
With an average rainfall of 50.22 inches, there is a good reason Georgia’s landscape is so green and lush.
The state’s heaviest rains typically fall around summer, with July often setting the record as the wettest month. This is all thanks to the mix of muggy humidity and thunderstorms, which roll through the state almost daily.
The state gets a lot of rain because of its location between the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Oceans and the moisture belts that they carry. This also means the state is used to some severe weather and hurricane after-effects.
The mountainous regions in northeastern Georgia are the wettest part of the state. Around 70 inches of rain fall here each year. When you aren’t trudging through mud, this means thick forests, rolling hills, and a lush agricultural landscape.
6. Hawaii (50.33 inches)
You might think Hawaii is all tropical beaches and blue skies, but the state also ranks among the rainiest in the country. Of course, the amount of rain each year varies significantly between islands, but it is impressive at 50.33 inches.
The mountains and valleys of Kauai receive the most rain. In fact, this island is one of the most rainy places on earth. The rainiest time of year is between November and March when trade winds sweep through the islands and bring moisture in from the Pacific Ocean.
The good part? Hawaii’s rain is the lifeblood of the lush tropical rainforests, waterfalls, green mountains, and fertile valleys. This mix of fertile volcanic soil and abundant rain makes it possible to grow mangoes, bananas, papaya, and even coffee beans in your backyard.
The monsoon rains can get so intense that many locals build their homes with raised foundations to prevent extreme water damage.
5. Tennessee (51.85 inches)
Tennessee stretches across a large portion of the southeast of the country. So naturally, there are some massive climatic variations from region to region. The state’s 51.85 inches of annual rainfall helps keep its mountains green and its valleys lush.
Unlike other states, it rains here throughout the year, with a little extra precipitation through the spring months. Spring is peak storm season, which brings thunderstorms, tornadoes, and extreme flooding. Even the remains of some hurricanes from the Gulf of Mexico hit the state.
Nashville can be prone to flash floods, but careful city planning has been put in place to help manage the flow of water.
But it’s not all tornado sirens and flood warnings around here. The abundance of rain means that Tennessee is home to a rich natural landscape, a flourishing agricultural sector, and stunning views.
4. Florida (54.73 inches)
Florida is known for its wet landscape, with lowlands, highlands, and plenty of wetlands. But its position between the Atlantic Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Straits of Florida makes it a magnet for moisture-dense air—especially during hurricane season.
Although it’s called ‘The Sunshine State,’ Florida is famous for its mild winters and humid summers, which are the perfect ingredients for a year-round beach climate. But with its warmth and humidity comes rain. Most rain hits between June and September when thunderstorms sweep across the peninsula.
The rainy climate creates ideal conditions for Florida’s lush, subtropical ecosystems. One look at the mangrove swamps and marshy Everglades, and you’ll see what I mean. Wildlife thrive in this setting, which is why it’s not unheard of to have an alligator visit your swimming pool after a big storm…
3. Alabama (56.00 inches)
Who would have thought Alabama was the third rainiest state in the US? Well, Alabamians would have… It’s another southeastern state that brings in high rainfall during winter and early spring, with November to April being the wettest months (depending on where you are).
And its all thanks to its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico, which brings moisture-rich winds as well as the occasional tropical storm. In fact, its rainiest city, Mobile, sits right on the coastline.
With 56 inches of average annual rainfall, Alabama boasts a landscape of dense forests, fertile farmland, and some impressively biodiverse ecosystems. The state is crisscrossed with rivers and lakes. Fun fact: there are 14 major rivers crossing through Alabama.
2. Mississippi (56.48 inches)
Just to the west of Alabama, Mississippians are no strangers to a rainy day. The state receives annual rainfall of 56.48 inches, most of which are monsoon rains that fall between July and September. August is the rainiest month and is often on the receiving end of heavy downpours.
The state is located along the Gulf of Mexico. And while the Gulf brings warm weather and sunny days that could give the Maldives and run for its money, it also brings tropical storms, hurricanes, and thunderstorms.
While the rainy climate has created a beautiful and diverse landscape perfect for farming, it also brings some challenges. Drainage systems and flood management programs are all in place to help prevent flash floods and protect farmlands from becoming swamps.
1. Louisiana (59.15 inches)
Taking the win as the rainiest state in the US, Louisiana sees about 59.15 inches of rainfall each year. It has a long coastline along the Gulf of Mexico, which brings high humidity and regular monsoon rains.
Most of the rain comes in fall and spring, when tropical storms and hurricanes bring heavy rain and flooding. But not all regions get the same rain. Precipitation ranges from 50 inches in the north to 70 inches down by the coastal Gulf region. The climate is subtropical and pretty much always muggy. New Orleans locals will know all too well how stormy things can get.
The landscape is made up of huge swamps, wetlands, and bayous (slow-moving streams), home to a bunch of exciting wildlife. For example, Louisiana’s spring wildflower blooms would have no chance without its intense rainfall.
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