Final answer:
Prevailing winds influence precipitation through the Rain Shadow Effect, which leads to wet conditions on the windward side of mountains and arid conditions on the leeward side.
Step-by-step explanation:
Prevailing winds can affect the amount of precipitation an area receives by causing the Rain Shadow Effect. This occurs when moist air is lifted over a mountain range and cools, causing it to drop its moisture on the windward side as rain or snow. When the air descends on the leeward side, it warms up and dries, creating an arid region. Nearby areas thus can have vastly different climates and precipitation levels based on their position relative to the mountain and prevailing wind direction.