The form of the earth's surface in this zone allows the entrance of the prevailing winds from the South to the North, avoiding the accumulation of sand or other elements on the plain's surface. The Nasca Plains are located on a great depression between the foot of the Andes and a coastal mountain chain of little elevation. Additionally, the ground contains some gypsum deposited there from the penetration of sea water during the Andes formation, producing a solid level of soil.