Define the term prevailing wind. Give an example of how they can affect a region's climate. How can prevailing winds influence city planning and residential construction?


At many locations, the wind blows more frequently from one direction than from any other. "Prevailing wind" is the name given to the wind direction most often observed during a given time period in a certain area. Prevailing winds can greatly affect the climate of a region. For example, if prevailing winds are upslope, the rising, cooling air makes clouds, fog, and precipitation more likely than where the winds are downslope. In city planning, the prevailing wind can help decide where to build such things as industrial centers, factories, city dumps, and sewage treatment plants, all of which would ideally be located so winds do not carry pollutants and smells into populated areas. With residential building, prevailing wind would be considered in order to maximize comfort and energy efficiency.

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences

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