This diagram elucidates the sequential process of rain-shadow desert formation, detailing the interaction between oceanic winds and mountainous terrain.
Overall, there are 7 distinct stages which demonstrate the transformation of moisture-laden winds into arid air masses.
Initially, winds from the sea approach coastal areas at the bottom of the mountains. While encountering the ridges, winds are pushed up and ascend along the windward slope. This upward movement saturates air with moisture and decreases its temperature which leads to clouds formation and precipitation accumulation. When precipitation occurs, rain falls down and waters the windward side of the mountain.
Following the falls, dry air starts to move downwards. When it descends along the leeward slope, it is depleted of moisture and becomes dry. After the downfall, arid wind reaches inland territories where it commences the formation of the rain-shadow desert. Consequently, thousands of kilometers are being passed, while verdant terrain is converted into dry land under the influence of moisture, temperature and evaporation.
