Mountain Climates: Windward Vs. Leeward Effects

In mountainous regions, the leeward and windward sides experience distinct climatic effects. The windward side, facing the prevailing winds, receives abundant precipitation and lush vegetation. Conversely, the leeward side, protected from the wind, experiences dry conditions and sparser vegetation. This difference is due to the orographic effect, where mountains force moist air to rise, cool, and condense on the windward side, leaving the leeward side dry.

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