rain shadow effect

The rain shadow effect occurs when moist air from an ocean or large body of water moves toward a mountain range. As the air rises over the mountains, it cools and releases moisture as rain or snow on the windward side. After crossing the peak, the now dry air descends on the leeward side, warming and drying out the land below. This results in a wetter climate on the windward side and a much drier, often desert-like environment on the leeward side, creating a noticeable difference in vegetation and climate across the mountain.