66
Observe Figure 6: the side on which the air/wind rises is known as the windward side.
The side on which air is descending is called the leeward side. While descending the air
no longer cools down. So there will be little or no condensation. Hence there will be fewer
clouds and less rainfall.
The relief rainfall occurs mostly in winter when the South East Trade Winds blow with full force.
The rains are not heavy. However they can be of long duration and can occur at any time of the day.
Relief rain
South East
Trade Winds
fig. 6 RELIEF RAIN
sea
After studying Figure 6, can you guess the reason that causes the air/wind (SETW) to rise?
The air/wind rises because of the relief.
In Mauritius winds blow from the south east. They are called the South East Trade Winds.
When these winds reach the south eastern part of Mauritius they are forced to rise over the
high slopes. On rising the air cools down, condenses to form clouds and gives rain.
This type of rainfall is known as relief rain.
South EastTrade Winds are also called prevailing winds because
they blow almost throughout the year.
The higher the air/wind rises, the more it cools down and the more it
condenses. More clouds are formed and more rain occurs.