Temperate climates are located in the middle latitudes (30º latitude). They lie between the equatorial and the polar climates. The air temperatures of this climate type does not fall below the freezing point of water throughout the year. These are the C climates in the Koppen System.
Temperate Climates
The temperate climates have moderate temperature conditions throughout the year. Temperatures generally do not fall below freezing. The average temperature of this climate type is about 10°C.
There are two major plant communities located in the temperate climate. These are Marine West Coast evergreen forests and Mediterranean chaparral vegetation.
Marine Climates
Marine climates are located in midlatitude regions. The ocean reduces temperature swings. This results in relatively mild temperatures. The has cool summers and cool winters. These climates are typically located on the west coasts of continents.
It is the dominant climate type in western Europe, America’s Pacific Northwest, midlatitude South America and New Zealand. The redwood forest shown is an example of the evergreen forest type in this climate. Evergreen plants retain their leaves throughout the year.
Mediterranean Climates
Mediterranean climates are warmer than the marine climates. Summers tend to be very warm with mild winters. However, rainfall is very seasonal. Summers can be very dry with winters being more moist.
It is the dominant climate in southern Europe, southwest coastal USA, and parts of South America and Australia. The typical vegetation type is chaparral. Chaparral is vegetation that is mostly broadleaf evergreen bushes and small trees. This climate type also supports cultivated crops such as citrus fruits, olives, and grapes.
Summary
The temperate climates are compared below.
Table of the Temperate Climate Types
| Dry Climate Type | Temperature Conditions | Rainfall Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Marine | Cool year round | Rainfall year round |
| Mediterranean | Warm year round | Wet and dry seasons |
Reflections
Vocabulary
- chaparral
- evergreen
- temperate
Notes
- The temperate climate has moderate temperature conditions throughout the year.
- Marine climates have abundant rainfall throughout the year.
- Mediterranean climates have distinct wet and dry seasons.
Bibliography
- An Atmosphere Study Guide
- About the Atmosphere
- The Temperate Climate, The Sustainability Council.
. They lie between the equatorial and the polar climates.){kind=link}