What are two factors that influence the climate of western united states?

1. The Pacific Ocean: The Pacific Ocean has a major influence on the climate of the western United States. The warm waters of the Pacific Ocean release heat and moisture into the atmosphere, which can lead to heavy rain and snowfall in the coastal areas of the western United States. The Pacific Ocean also influences the climate of the western United States by creating a "rain shadow" effect. As the moist air from the Pacific Ocean moves inland, it rises and cools, causing the moisture to condense and fall as rain or snow. This rain shadow effect results in the western United States being much drier than the eastern United States.

2. The Rocky Mountains: The Rocky Mountains also have a major influence on the climate of the western United States. The high peaks of the Rocky Mountains block the flow of moist air from the Pacific Ocean, which can lead to dry conditions in the western United States. The Rocky Mountains also create a barrier to cold air masses from the Arctic, which can help to keep the western United States warm in the winter.