What is rainshadow effect?

The rainshadow effect is a meteorological phenomenon that occurs when moist air moving inland from the ocean is forced to rise over a mountain range. As the air rises, it cools and releases moisture in the form of rain or snow on the windward side of the mountains. Once the air descends on the leeward side, it becomes warmer and drier, creating a rain shadow effect where little precipitation falls and creating arid or desert-like conditions.