PRACTICE YOUR ENGLISH 1º SE: CLIMATES OF THE WORLD

The Earth has a multitude of climates. To analyze these climates, we use various classifications.

Generally speaking, we can divide them into three main groups

1. Warm climates

Location

In the intertropical zone, or rather, the Tropic of Cancer (23o 27'N and the Tropic of Capricorn (23 degrees 27's).

Characteristics

An elevated temperature (greater than 18 degrees C) and abundant sunshine.

Subtypes

a. Equatorial

Temperature greater than 25 degrees C and abundant precipitation over the year.

b. Tropical

Temperature greater than 18 degrees C and abundant precipitation, with a rainy season and a dry season.

c. Warm desert

Temperatures greater than 18 degrees C and scarce precipitation.

2. Temperate climates

Location

From the tropics to the polar circles (at 66 degrees 33').

Characteristics

Differences over the year (seasons).

Subtypes

a. Oceanic

Abundant and regular precipitation over the year. Mild temperatures with scarce thermal fluctuation.

b. Mediterranean

Scarce and irregular precipitation (drought in the summer) Mild temperatures in winter and hot temperatures in summer.

c. Continental

Scarce and irregular precipitation (maximum precipitation in the summer). Temperatures cause a stark contrast between hot summers and cold winters.

d. Chinese

Abundant precipitation with the maximum amount in summer. Cool temperatures in winter and hot temperatures in the summer.

3. Cold climates

Location

From the polar circles at the poles (90 degrees N and S) and the zones of elevated altitude.

Characteristics

Very cold temperatures (under 0 degrees C).

Subtypes

a. Polar

Low temperatures and scarce precipitation.

b. Mountainous

Low temperatures and abundant precipitation.