Question

Why are winds blowing in the Prairies very strong and gusty?

Answer 1

The following are the reasons for strong and gusty winds in the Prairies:

(a) The Prairies face the leeward side of the Rocky Mountains.
(b) The descending air from the Mountains is dry and light.
(c) The winds do not face any obstacles in the open grasslands and hence, the winds get violent and strong.

The local winds of this nature are known as chinook.