Altitude has a significant impact on mountain weather. Temperature decreases by around 6 degrees Celsius for every 1000 meter increase in elevation, so mountains can maintain snow and ice even near the equator. Precipitation is always higher at altitude due to air cooling as it rises over mountains. Wind patterns in mountains can also be unusual, with cold air descending into valleys at night, creating temperature inversions. Aspect also influences temperature, with south-facing slopes receiving more direct sunlight than north-facing slopes. Mountain weather is highly variable over short periods compared to lowland areas.