Mountains act as a focus for rising air currents that contain some humidity. As the air rises it forms clouds over the mountains and rain occurs there before it moves over the desert.
A phenomenon known as orographic lifting occurs. Prevailing winds are forced to rise at the mountains. As the air rises it cools. If the temperature reaches the dew point, the moisture in the air condenses and forms clouds and rain or snow may fall over the mountains.
Only twelve percent of Texas is desert. The rest of the state receives enough rainfall to move out of the desert classification.
Deserts and mountains are found in far-west Texas.
Rainfall decreases as it moves from east to west in Texas due to the rain shadow effect caused by the Rocky Mountains. The mountains block moisture-laden air from reaching the western regions, creating drier conditions. This leads to a drier climate in areas west of the mountains.
The region in Texas with the driest climate is typically the Trans-Pecos region in the western part of the state. This area experiences low rainfall and high temperatures, with desert-like conditions prevailing.
Far west Texas falls in the Chihuahuan Desert and receives less than 10 inches (250 mm) of rainfall per year on average.
The Mountains and Basins region of Texas is characterized by its rugged terrain and high elevation, primarily formed by geological uplift and erosion. This area includes the Guadalupe Mountains, which are the highest peaks in Texas, and is known for its unique landscapes, such as desert basins and rocky formations. The region experiences minimal rainfall, leading to a desert climate and distinct ecosystems. Overall, the movement of tectonic forces has shaped this diverse and dramatic landscape over millions of years.
Far west Texas is a desert. It receives less than 10 inches of rainfall on average per year. It is part of the Chihuahuan Desert that covers parts of Texas, New Mexico, Arizona as well as much of Central Mexico.
Tennessee receives much more rain than the desert. Plants in the desert of west Texas have adapted to live with little water.
The Chihuahuan Desert of far-west Texas receives the least amount of rain, usually averaging less than 8 inches per year.
The mountains and basins region of Texas is characterized by rugged mountain ranges, deserts, and flat basins. The Guadalupe Mountains, Davis Mountains, and Franklin Mountains are prominent mountain ranges in this region. The area also experiences a semi-arid climate with low rainfall and extreme temperature variations.
The eastern part of Texas, particularly along the Gulf Coast, tends to receive the most rainfall due to its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico. Cities like Houston and Beaumont typically experience higher levels of precipitation compared to other regions in Texas.