Final answer:
The dry climates west of the Mississippi are found in the Pacific Northwest and Southwest, influenced by the rain shadow effect causing semi-arid conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Based on the climates west of the Mississippi, the regions that would have a dry climate are Pacific Northwest and Southwest. The western United States experiences a strong rain shadow effect, particularly affecting the areas east of the Cascades and Sierra Nevada mountain ranges. This phenomenon occurs as moist air moves over the mountains and loses its moisture, resulting in arid conditions on the leeward side.
The Southwest, including areas like Arizona and New Mexico, is characterized by a more arid climate and receives less rainfall, contributing to desert conditions and making the region suitable for cattle ranching over farming, except where irrigation is possible. Similarly, the rain shadow effect creates semi-arid conditions in eastern Washington and eastern Oregon, parts of the Pacific Northwest.