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The above illustration shows the storm-blocking effects
of the Olympic Mountains. While the precipitation at
the Olympic's peaks increases to 200 inches, the phenomenon
commonly called the "Banana Belt" effectively reduces
the precipitation in the adjacent islands, producing
a much sunnier climate. Below is a list of annual rainfall
in inches.
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Anacortes
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20"
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Seattle
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35"
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New York
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40"
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San Francisco
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18"
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Miami
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59"
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Dallas
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32"
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Portland
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37"
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Chicago
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31"
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Boating in the Banana Belt
Northwest of Seattle, Washington, lie several groups of islands
that are nestled in between mountain ranges to the North,
South and to the East.
The protected waters that surround these islands are a closely
guarded secret of those who have discovered this Northwest
oasis. Although the Pacific Northwest receives a significant amount of rainfall,
these cruising areas are situated in the lee of three different mountain ranges that
create a rain shadow yielding a wonderful micro climate.
This Northwest "Banana Belt" includes areas with annual
precipitation of 15" or less. This region also enjoys a very
comfortable temperature range year-round. Combine these characteristics
with the native wildlife and majestic scenery, and you have
a recipe for some of the world's finest cruising.
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