What is a coastal dessert?

Answer 1

Coastal deserts generally are found on the western edges of continents near the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn. They are affected by cold ocean currents that parallel the coast. Because local wind systems dominate the trade winds, these deserts are less stable than other deserts. Winter fogs, produced by upwelling cold currents, frequently blanket coastal deserts and block solar radiation. Coastal deserts are relatively complex because they are at the juncture of terrestrial, oceanic, and atmospheric systems. A coastal desert, the Atacama of South America, is the Earth's driest desert. In the Atacama, measurable rainfall--1 millimeter or more of rain--may occur as infrequently as once every 5-20 years.

Answer 2

A coastal desert is a type of desert located near Coastlines that is influenced by both desert and marine climates. These areas tend to be dry with low precipitation levels but can experience fog and humidity from the nearby ocean, supporting unique ecosystems and adapted plant and animal species. Examples of coastal deserts include the Atacama Desert in South America and the Namib Desert in Africa.