rain shadow

noun Meteorology.

1. a region in the lee of mountains that receives less rainfall than the region windward of the mountains.

noun

1. the relatively dry area on the leeward side of high ground in the path of rain-bearing winds

1. An area having relatively little precipitation due to the effect of a topographic barrier, especially a mountain range, that causes the prevailing winds to lose their moisture on the windward side, causing the leeward side to be dry.