Chinook Winds are warm, dry winds that descend the eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains in North America. They occur when moist air rises over the mountains, cools, and loses moisture as precipitation. As the air descends, it warms up, leading to a rapid increase in temperature, often by as much as 20 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit in just a few hours. These winds can significantly impact local weather and climate, causing sudden temperature changes and melting snow. Chinook Winds are particularly notable in regions like Colorado and Alberta, where they can create a phenomenon known as a "Chinook arch," a distinctive cloud formation.