Rain Shadow Theory

Rain Shadow Theory explains how mountain ranges can create dry areas on their leeward side. When moist air approaches a mountain, it rises and cools, causing moisture to condense and fall as rain on the windward side. After crossing the mountain, the now dry air descends, warms, and absorbs moisture, resulting in significantly less rainfall on the leeward side. This creates distinct wet and dry zones, often leading to lush landscapes on the windward side and arid conditions in the rain shadow area behind the mountains.