OROGRAPHIC LIFTING

Where the flow of air is forced up and over barriers such as highlands or mountains. Moist air being forced aloft begins to cool, consequently condensation forms, and rain or snow begins to fall. By the time the air reaches the leeward side of the barrier, it sinks and warms, resulting in decreasing relative humidity, cessation of precipitation, and the dissipation of clouds. May be called an orographic uplift.