World Climates: A Comprehensive Overview
World Climates
Introduction
Weather describes the atmosphere’s current state, while climate represents long-term weather patterns. Some climates remain consistent year-round, while others experience seasonal variations.
Climate Zones
Equatorial Climate
Temperatures: High and constant (22-32°C). Rainfall: Abundant, exceeding 2000mm annually, with heavy afternoon thunderstorms.
Tropical Continental Climate
- Dry Season: Hot and dry, similar to desert conditions.
- Wet Season: Hot and wet, resembling equatorial areas.
Temperatures: High year-round with a small annual range. Rainfall: Dry season dominated by easterly trade winds; wet season brings increased precipitation.
Mediterranean Climate
- Summer: Hot and dry, similar to desert conditions.
- Winter: Warm and wet, resembling the British Isles.
Temperatures: High summer temperatures, moderated by coastal influences. Rainfall: Dry summers with occasional thunderstorms; wet winters.
British Climate
Temperatures: Moderate due to higher latitude (50-60°N). Winters are milder than expected. Rainfall: Relatively wet throughout the year due to prevailing south-westerly winds and relief rainfall.
Climate Variations: South warmer than north in summer; west warmer and wetter than east in winter.
Cold Climates
Temperatures: Short, cool summers with low temperatures due to low sun angle and distance from the sea. Rainfall: Very low due to cold air’s limited moisture capacity, distance from the sea, and rainshadow effects.
Climatic Hazards
Drought
Drought, a prolonged period of drier-than-usual weather, can become a hazard with severe consequences when it persists or rainfall is significantly below average.
Tropical Storms
Tropical storms, including hurricanes, are highly destructive. Hurricanes, rotating around intense low-pressure areas, generate extreme winds (exceeding 118 km/h, sometimes reaching 300 km/h) and torrential rain, causing widespread damage and casualties.
Effects of Tropical Storms
Devastating impacts include uprooted trees, destroyed buildings, injuries, and fatalities.