The Great Basin is characterized by an arid climate, receiving very little annual rainfall, making it a mostly dry region.

The Great Basin experiences very little rainfall due to its position in a rain shadow, where mountains block moisture from the west. As a result, the region receives less than 10 inches of precipitation annually in many areas. The limited rainfall contributes to its desert and semi-arid environments, with some areas experiencing seasonal fluctuations. While snowfall can occur in the winter, especially in the higher elevations, overall precipitation is minimal, and much of the landscape is dry, with some areas classified as true deserts.