What Is Climate?

Climate is the long-term statistical pattern of weather (averages, variability, extremes) over decades in a region. It differs from weather, which is short-term atmospheric state.

Key Influences

• Latitude (solar angle)
• Altitude
• Proximity to oceans/currents
• Prevailing winds
• Topography (mountains, valleys)

Major Climate Types (Köppen)

• Tropical (A) – Hot year-round, distinct wet/dry seasons.
• Dry (B) – Arid/semi-arid, low precipitation.
• Temperate (C) – Mild winters, warm summers, moderate rain.
• Continental (D) – Hot summers, cold winters, larger seasonal swing.
• Polar (E) – Cold year-round, tundra/ice cap.

Climate Change

Human greenhouse-gas emissions are shifting patterns: rising temperatures, altered precipitation, more extreme events. Understanding climate is vital for adaptation, agriculture, water security, and mitigation.