Mountain ranges increase precipitation on the windward side and create dry conditions on the leeward side due to the orographic effect.

Mountain ranges have a significant impact on climate through the orographic effect. When moist air from the ocean or other bodies of water is forced to rise over a mountain range, it cools and condenses, causing heavy precipitation on the windward side. This results in lush vegetation and wetter conditions. On the leeward side, however, the air descends, warms up, and loses its moisture, creating dry, arid conditions known as a rain shadow. This phenomenon can lead to stark differences in climate on either side of the mountains, influencing local weather patterns, ecosystems, and agriculture.