The Continental Divide acts as a barrier, influencing the movement of air masses and storm systems, leading to different weather patterns on either side.

The Continental Divide significantly impacts North American weather. It acts as a mountain barrier, forcing air masses moving from the Pacific Ocean to rise. As this moist air rises, it cools and condenses, often leading to precipitation (rain or snow) on the western slopes. Once the air crosses the divide, it descends, becoming drier and creating rain shadows on the eastern side. This process leads to distinct weather patterns on either side of the divide.