Fohn windsDone by D.Kemp

How do Fohn winds occur?

• A fohn wind occurs when a deep layer of prevailing wind is forced over a mountain range. As the wind descends to lower levels on the leeward side of the mountains the air heats as it comes under greater atmospheric pressure creating strong gusty warm and dry winds. Fohn winds can raise temperatures as much as 30°C (50°F) in just a matter of hours.

Characteristics

• Fohn winds that are warm and dry because their air has been warmed by compression as they flow over the mountain ranges and then down the slopes

Diagram