Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Definition
The rain shadow effect occurs when a mountain range blocks prevailing moisture-laden winds, causing one side of the mountain to be relatively dry while the other side receives abundant rainfall.
Orographic Precipitation: Precipitation caused by air being forced up and over mountains, leading to cooling and condensation.
Prevailing Winds: Global wind patterns that blow consistently in certain directions due to factors like temperature differences between equatorial regions and polar regions.
Climate Zones: Different regions on Earth characterized by distinct climate patterns based on factors such as latitude, altitude, proximity to oceans or mountains.