föhn storms

Föhn storms occur when moist air ascends the windward side of mountains, cools, and releases moisture as precipitation. After losing moisture, the dry air descends the leeward side, warming and lowering humidity. This rapid temperature increase causes warm, dry winds known as föhn winds, creating a föhn storm. These events can lead to sudden warm spells, reduced snow cover, and sometimes hazardous conditions like rapid melting or increased fire risk. Föhn storms are common in regions with prominent mountain ranges, such as the Alps and the Rockies, and are influenced by large-scale atmospheric patterns.