NDA 2026 · PYQ · Climatology / Local Winds · medium
Which one of the following winds is responsible for wildfires in Southern California?
A.Diablo wind
B.Chinook wind
C.Santa Ana wind✓ Correct
D.Jarbo Gap wind
Explanation
The Santa Ana winds are strong, extremely dry downslope winds that originate inland and blow towards the coast of Southern California. They warm and dry out as they descend, often reaching gale force, and are notorious for spreading wildfires rapidly in Southern California. The Diablo winds affect Northern California, the Chinook is a warm dry wind on the leeward side of the Rocky Mountains, and the Jarbo Gap wind affects the Sierra Nevada foothills in Northern California.
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