The leeward side of a geographical feature, like a mountain, is the side sheltered from the prevailing wind, often resulting in drier conditions due to the rain shadow effect. This phenomenon significantly influences local climate, vegetation, and human settlement patterns in the region.

Leeward Side

leeward side

geographical feature

prevailing wind

drier conditions

The rain shadow effect occurs when moist air ascends a mountain range, cools and loses moisture as precipitation on the windward side, leaving the leeward side dry as descending air warms and retains moisture. This phenomenon creates distinct ecological zones and influences local climate, often resulting in arid regions adjacent to lush areas.

rain shadow effect

Local climate refers to the specific atmospheric conditions, such as temperature, humidity, and precipitation, that characterize a particular area over a long period. It is influenced by factors like geography, altitude, and proximity to bodies of water, and can vary significantly from the broader regional or global climate trends.

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