This is why plants wilt in high winds. The topsoil is the most organic and fertile soil layer. Along coastal zones and on small islands wind can and deposit tons of salt per hectare annually. In soil, salt draws moisture away from plants. Deposited on some plants, salt burns leaves and kills plant tissue.
Animals exposed to cold or hot winds can become stressed and much less productive.
Wind borne dust may be a human health hazard. Because they slow the wind, windbreaks conserve plant and soil moisture, prevent crop damage, prevent soil erosion, and reduce salt-spray. Correct windbreak orientation is crucial. You should obviously plant your windbreak on the windward side of the land area or field you want to protect. You must also plant your windbreak in lines that are perpendicular to the prevailing wind direction.