Location of deserts
Published on 31 Jan 2025
Major hot deserts in the northern hemisphere are located between 20-30 deg N latitudes and on the western side of the continents. It is because of the following reasons:
Subtropical high-pressure belts: Characterized by sinking air, which warms and dries as it descends. This descending air inhibits the formation of clouds and precipitation, leading to arid conditions.
Example: Formation of African and Eurasian deserts
Rain shadow effect: Topographic barriers blocking winds leading to less rainfall on the leeward side and is more likely to be arid.
Example: Thar desert formation due to the rain shadow effect of Aravallis.
Cold ocean currents: These currents cool the air above them, making it less likely to form clouds and precipitation.
Example: Atacama Desert formed due to cold Peru Current.
Offshore trade winds: These winds blow offshore from the western coasts of continents, carrying moisture away from the land and contributing to aridity.
Example: Formation of Sahara desert due to offshore trade winds.