Windward / Leeward

Windward and leeward describe positions relative to the direction of the wind. The windward side faces the incoming wind and is typically exposed to more moisture, often resulting in wetter, more lush conditions. Conversely, the leeward side is sheltered from the wind, lying opposite the wind source, and tends to be drier due to the rain shadow effect, where moist air loses its moisture on the windward side. This distinction helps explain differences in climate, vegetation, and weather patterns on different slopes of mountains or areas exposed to prevailing winds.