Climatic zones and climatic regions of the Earth. Description, map and characteristics

CLIMATE ZONES

Climate zones.

The climate, like all meteorological quantities, is zonal. There are 7 main and 6 transitional climatic zones.

The main ones include:

equatorial,

two subequatorial (in the northern and southern hemispheres),

two tropical

two moderate

two polar.

The names of transitional zones are closely linked to the names of the main climatic zones and characterize their location on Earth: two subequatorial, subtropical and subpolar (subarctic and subantarctic). The basis for identifying climatic zones is thermal zones and dominant types of air masses and their movement.

In the main zones, one type of air mass dominates throughout the year, and in transitional zones, the types of air masses change in winter and summer due to the change of seasons and shifts in atmospheric pressure zones.

Equatorial belt. Equatorial air predominates throughout the year. Average monthly temperatures are 25-28 ° C, their amplitudes are small, calm or weak winds prevail in the belt, humidity is high, cloudiness is significant, most often represented by cumulus and cumulus-thunderstorm (vertically developed) clouds. Precipitation 1000-2000 mm/year. The equatorial belt is characterized by two rainy periods in transition seasons, often after the equinoxes, separated by less rainy or short rainless periods, with excessive moisture. The equatorial climate is characteristic of the river basin. Amazon (Amazonian Lowland, South America), the coast of the Gulf of Guinea and the Congo River basin ( West Africa, lowland Congo), the Malacca Peninsula, the Sunda Islands and New Guinea (borders of Indian and Pacific Oceans).

Subequatorial belts . Air masses change throughout the year. In summer, equatorial air dominates, summer is humid; in winter - tropical, winter is dry. Rainy (summer) and dry (winter) periods are clearly defined. Winter is only slightly cooler than summer, average temperatures vary from 22 to 30 ° C, and temperature amplitudes increase. The annual amount of precipitation varies significantly: if on average it falls 1000-1500 mm, then on the windward slopes of the mountains it can be 6000-10000 mm. Almost all precipitation falls in summer. Subequatorial climate observed in the Brazilian and Guinean highlands (South America), in Central Africa adjacent to the Congo River basin on all sides, in Hindustan and Indochina ( South Asia) and Northern Australia.

Tropical climate zones located on both sides of the tropics, approximately between 18 and 30 ° N. and S. Tropical air (dry air with high temperatures), trade winds predominate (northeast and southeast). The weather is mostly clear, winter is warm, but noticeably colder than summer. Average temperatures warm month+30-35 ° C, cold - not lower than +10 ° C. The tropical zone is characterized by very large daily temperature amplitudes - up to 40 ° C, and the average annual temperature is about 20 ° C. Cloudiness is insignificant, precipitation in most areas is low: 50 -150 mm/year (except for the eastern parts of the continents, which are under the influence of oceanic trade winds). IN tropical zone allocate two climatic regions: 1) dry , desert climate- west and center of continents and 2) wet tropical climate - on the eastern coasts of the continents.

Subtropical climate zones follow the tropical ones and are located approximately between 30 and 40° latitude in Northern and Southern Hemisphere. In summer, tropical air dominates here, in winter - temperate. Characterized by the presence of dry and wet periods. In these zones it prevails in summer anticyclonic weather(with the exception of monsoon regions). Summer is dry, hot, with an average temperature of about 30 ° C. In winter, cyclonic weather associated with the polar (temperate) front prevails. Winters are humid and warm, but temperatures below 0 °C are also possible. Snow rarely falls, so snow cover does not form. The amount of precipitation is from 200 to 500 mm per year, but on the windward slopes of the mountains it is much higher (Crkvice - 8000 mm, Balkan Peninsula). In subtropical zones there are climatic regions : 1) Mediterranean I - on the western coasts of the continents - the Mediterranean, Central Chile (South America), southwest Australia, California (N. America), the southern coast of Crimea (Europe). It is characterized by clear, dry and hot summers and rainy warm winter; 2) monsoon subtropical - Florida (N.America), Uruguay (South America), Eastern China, Japanese Islands (East Asia). In this area, summers are hot but rainy, winters are relatively cold and dry; 3) subtropical continental climate region, located in the central parts of the continents. Summers are hot and dry, winters are relatively cold with little precipitation (southern Australia, Turkmenistan, Iran, Taklimakan Desert, western China, dry western USA). Certain areas of the subtropical zone have uniform moisture throughout the year: southeast Australia, Tasmania, and middle part Argentina (South America).

Temperate climate zones occupy the space between 40°N. and S. and polar circles (66 ° 33 N and S). Moderate temperatures dominate here throughout the year. air masses, arctic and tropical air often invades. The belt is dominated westerly winds , and on the eastern coasts - monsoons. Plays an important role throughout the year cyclonic activity on the polar (temperate) and Arctic (Antarctic) fronts. Precipitation often occurs, mainly of frontal origin. However, anticyclone weather is not uncommon in the temperate zone. Anticyclones bring predominantly dry weather, especially to continental areas in winter. The regime and amount of precipitation in the temperate zone vary and depend on two main factors: proximity to the sea and the nature of the relief. The following pattern can be traced: when moving inland, the amount of precipitation and days with precipitation becomes less. In the northern and western parts continents have excessive moisture (i.e. K > 1.0), while in the southern and central regions it is insufficient (K< 1,0). Наблюдаются существенные температурные различия между летом и зимой, между сушей и морем. Годовая amplitude air temperatures in winter over the continent reach 50-60 ° C, and over the oceans about 15 ° C. In winter, snow falls on the continents, a stable snow cover is formed, which lasts for several months. The diversity of temperature and circulation regimes of the temperate zone predetermines its division into 4 climatic regions:

1)sea temperate climate (western coasts of the continents) with relatively warm winter, cool and cloudy summers with maximum precipitation. This is the big part Western Europe, coastal strip north-west North America, southern Chile (South America);

2) transitional from maritime to continental- most of Europe, Patagonia (South America);

3) continental climate with to varying degrees continentality and maximum precipitation in the warm season(inland US, south and southeast of Eastern Europe, Siberia, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, etc.);

4) monsoon temperate climate (n and the eastern coasts of the continents) with cold and dry winters, cool and rainy summers (Far East, Northeast China, northern Korea, the Japanese Islands, etc.).

Subpolar climate zones (subarctic and subantarctic). There is also a change in air masses: in winter Arctic (Antarctic) air dominates, in summer - air masses temperate latitudes. Cyclones and anticyclones are frequent, the frequency of which is approximately the same. There is a polar day and a polar night. The winter is long and harsh, average temperature January (July) to -40 ° C and below, but in the oceanic parts up to -5-10 ° C. Summer is short and cool, with the temperature of the warmest month not exceeding 10 ° C. There is little precipitation, their annual amount is up to 200 mm and lower, in oceanic areas up to 400 mm/year. Evaporation is very low, so there is excess moisture, the air is damp, there is a lot of cloudiness, there are many days with rain and especially with snow. In any month, temperatures can drop below 0°C and snow can fall. Winds are frequent and strong. The tundras are located in this belt - the northern coast of Eurasia and North America (continental climate), the Commander and Aleutian Islands, as well as the Antarctic islands (oceanic subpolar climate).

Polar climate zones (Arctic and Antarctic). Arctic air dominates in these zones throughout the year. What is atypical for the belts is that in the western part of the Arctic there is intense cyclonic activity over the sea surface and sea temperate air very often invades. An anticyclone dominates over Antarctica. Characteristic is the absence solar radiation in winter (polar night) and 24-hour lighting in summer. However, snow and ice surfaces strongly reflect the sun's rays, which here fall at an angle close to 180°, and emit a lot of heat. Air temperature and humidity are very low, average temperatures are negative, only in some places summer months rise to +5 ° C. There are marine arctic and continental Antarctic climates. The latter is particularly harsh. The average temperature recorded here in December (summer) is -32 ° C, and in August (winter) -71 ° C, the maximum temperature rarely rises above - 20 ° C. There is little precipitation, the air is dry, and strong winds periodically occur, especially in the transition seasons. The climate does not remain unchanged. That it is changing is evidenced by observational data on the state of the atmosphere over almost 200 years. Information about weather and climate is available in chronicles and in the works of scientists ancient world. Some rocks (coral limestones, coal, salts, band clays, etc.), landforms, remains of organisms, plant pollen. The causes of climate change are many and overlapping, making it difficult to study. Nowadays, human activity has a great influence on the climate: it changes the state of the atmosphere (increased CO 2 content, dust, heat emissions, etc.), the underlying surface (deforestation, creation of reservoirs, irrigation and drainage of territories). The influence of people on the climate can be considered spontaneous and unfavorable.

The temperate climate zone is one of the widest and covers the territories of our planet lying between the 40th and 60th parallels in the northern and southern hemispheres.

Moreover, in the north the zone of this belt extends to the 65th parallel, and in the south it contracts to approximately the 58th parallel. Towards the poles of the earth it borders on the subantarctic and subarctic zones, towards the equator - on the subtropical.

Characteristics of the temperate climate zone

Throughout the belt there is a moderate air mass, which is characterized by high humidity and low atmospheric pressure. The air temperature always changes depending on the season, and therefore the seasons in the temperate zone are clearly defined: winter is snowy and frosty, spring is bright and green, summer is sultry and hot, and autumn is golden with heavy rains and winds. The average temperature in winter in temperate latitudes drops to 0 °C; in summer it rarely rises above +15, +20 °C. The average annual precipitation is 500-800mm.

Depending on the proximity of the oceans, the climate in temperate latitudes is divided into 4 types:

Nautical- this climate is formed over the oceans and covers coastal land areas. Winters here are mild, summers are not hot, there is a lot of rainfall and high humidity.
Monsoon- this type of climate is rarely found in temperate latitudes, as it is more typical for the tropics and subtropics. The weather in these areas is very dependent on the circulation of seasonal winds - the monsoons.
Sharply continental- this climate is typical for areas located at a considerable distance from the oceans. Winters in these areas of land are very cold, frosty, often at the limit of the cold pole. Summer is short and not hot. During the warm season there is more precipitation than in winter.

Temperature values

(average, approximate for the temperate climate zone)

Marine climate area: July +12 °C +16 °C, January 0 °C +4 °C.
Continental climate area: July +18 °C +24 °C, January -6 °C -20 °C.
Temperate continental climate region: July +15 °C +17 °C, January 0 °C -8°C.

By the way, this type of climate does not occur in the southern hemisphere, since there are practically no land areas there in temperate latitudes.

Temperate continental- one of the most stable types of climate. Distributed on all land areas that are located relatively far from the oceans and sea. Summers here are always hot, winters are frosty, and there is little precipitation. One of the main signs of this type of climate is strong winds, dust storms and partly cloudy.

Natural zones of the temperate climate zone

In temperate latitudes, there are three main types of natural zones: forests, forest-steppes and arid zones.

Forests

Taiga— forest areas dominated by coniferous trees. Lots of swamps. This natural area covers the northern part of Siberia and continental Canada. Taiga is found in Scandinavia and Finland, but in the southern hemisphere it does not exist as a separate natural zone.

Mixed forests. In such forests coniferous trees grow next to broadleaf trees. This natural zone is distributed over most of Eurasia: Scandinavia, the Carpathians, the Caucasus, middle lane Eastern European and West Siberian Plains, on Far East. On the American continent it is found in the Great Lakes region of California. In the southern hemisphere it covers large parts of South America and New Zealand.

Broadleaf forests. This natural zone is typical for temperate latitudes with a humid and moderately humid climate. The zone occupies most of Europe, stretches across the USA, and is found in East Asia. In the southern hemisphere, it affects southern Chile and New Zealand.

Forest-steppe- characteristic of temperate latitudes with a temperate continental climate.

Ocean meadows- areas of land where grasses and herbs predominate. The climate is cool. This natural zone covers coastal land and islands in temperate latitudes approximately between 50 and 56 parallels. In the northern hemisphere, this is the zone of the Commander Islands, Aleutian Islands, Alaska, Kamchatka, southern Greenland, Scandinavia and Iceland. In the southern hemisphere - the Falkland and Shetland Islands.

Dry zones

Steppes- a natural zone that surrounds all continents (except Australia and Antarctica) on the borders of temperate continental and extreme continental climates. In Eurasia there are the vast steppes of Russia, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, in America there are the prairies of Canada and the USA, in South America there are Chile and Argentina.

Semi-deserts. This natural zone is characterized by the absence of forests and specific vegetation. In the northern hemisphere they cover the east of Eurasia, the Caspian lowland, and extend all the way to China. In North America, they are common in the western United States. In the southern hemisphere, they cover small areas in southern South America.

Deserts- the last natural zone of the temperate zone, which covers flat areas with a harsh continental climate. Distributed in Asia, in the western regions of North America, in Patagonia.

Temperate countries

(Map of the Earth's climate zones, click on the image to enlarge)

The temperate climate zone covers most of Eurasia and America, so there are a lot of countries that exist in this climate zone.

In the northern hemisphere:

North America: Canada, USA.

Europe: Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, northern Turkey and Spain, Italy, France, Great Britain, Ireland, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Albania, Macedonia, Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia and Montenegro, Hungary, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland, Ukraine, Belarus, Croatia, Lithuania, Denmark, Latvia, Estonia, southern Sweden and Norway.

Asia: part of Russia, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, northern China and Japan, North Korea.

In the southern hemisphere:

South America : southern Argentina, Chile.

French South Polar Territories

O. Tasmania

New Zealand (South Island)

Territory of the temperate climate zone in Russia

The temperate climate zone occupies most of Russia, so all types of climate characteristic of these latitudes are represented here: from sharply continental to monsoon and maritime. This zone includes most of the European part of the country, all of Siberia, the East European Plain, Caspian lowland and the Far East.

The cycle of heat, moisture and general circulation atmospheres shape the weather and climate in geographical envelope. The types of air masses and the characteristics of their circulation at different latitudes create the conditions for the formation of the Earth's climate. The dominance of one air mass throughout the year determines the boundaries of climate zones.

Climate zones- these are territories that encircle the Earth in a continuous or intermittent strip; They differ from each other in temperature, atmospheric pressure, amount and regime of precipitation, prevailing air masses and winds. The symmetrical distribution of climatic zones relative to the equator is a manifestation of the law of geographic zonation. There are main and transitional climatic zones. The names of the main climatic zones are given according to the dominant air masses and the latitudes in which they are formed.

There are 13 climatic zones: seven main and six transitional. The boundaries of each zone are determined by the summer and winter positions of climate fronts.

There are seven main climatic zones: equatorial, two tropical, two temperate and two polar (Arctic and Antarctic). In each of the climatic zones, one air mass dominates throughout the year - equatorial, tropical, temperate, arctic (Antarctic), respectively.

Between the main zones in each hemisphere, transitional climate zones are formed: two subequatorial, two subtropical and two subpolar (subarctic and subantarctic). IN transitional belts There is a seasonal change in air masses. They come from neighboring main belts: in summer the air mass is from the southern main belt, and in winter from the northern one. The proximity of the oceans, warm and cold currents, and topography influence climatic differences within the zones: climatic regions with different types of climate are distinguished.

Characteristics of climate zones

The equatorial belt formed in the region of the equator as an intermittent strip, where equatorial air masses predominate. Average monthly temperatures range from +26 to +28 C. Precipitation falls 1500-3000 mm evenly throughout the year. The equatorial belt is the most humidified part earth's surface(Congo River basin, coast of the Gulf of Guinea in Africa, Amazon River basin in South America, Sunda Islands).

There are continental and oceanic climate types, but the difference between them is small.

For subequatorial belts encircling equatorial belt from the north and south, monsoon air circulation is characteristic. A feature of the belts is the seasonal change of air masses. In summer, equatorial air dominates, in winter - tropical. There are two seasons: wet summer and dry winter. In summer, the climate differs slightly from the equatorial one: high humidity, abundance atmospheric precipitation. IN winter season Hot, dry weather sets in, grasses burn out, trees shed their leaves. The average air temperature in all months ranges from +20 to +30 °C. The annual precipitation is 1000-2000 mm, with maximum precipitation falling in summer.

Tropical zones are between 20 and 30 C. and Yu. w. on both sides of the tropics, where trade winds prevail. (Remember why in tropical latitudes the air sinks and high pressure prevails.) Throughout the year, tropical air masses with high temperatures dominate here. The average temperature of the warmest month is +30...+35 C, the coldest month is not lower than +10 C. In the center of the continents the climate is tropical continental (desert). Cloud cover is insignificant, precipitation in most parts is less than 250 mm per year. Low rainfall causes the formation of the world's greatest deserts - the Sahara and Kalahari in Africa, deserts Arabian Peninsula, Australia. In the eastern parts of the continents, which are influenced by warm currents and trade winds blowing from the ocean, intensified by the monsoons in the summer season, a tropical humid climate. Average monthly temperature in summer +26 C, in winter +22 C. Average annual precipitation is 1500 mm.

Subtropical zones (25-40 N and S latitude) are formed under the influence of tropical air masses in summer and temperate air masses in winter. The western parts of the continents have a Mediterranean climate: summers are dry, hot, the average temperature of the warmest month is +30 C, and winters are wet and warm (up to +5...+10 C), but short-term frosts are possible. On the eastern coasts of the continents, a subtropical monsoon climate is formed with hot (+25 C) rainy summers and cool (+8 C) dry winters. Precipitation amount is 1000-1500 mm. Snow rarely falls.

In the central parts of the continents, the climate is subtropical continental, with hot (+30 C) and dry summers and relatively cold winter(+6…+8 C) with low precipitation (300 mm). The subtropical humid climate is characterized by more uniform temperatures and precipitation. In summer +20 C, in winter +12 C, precipitation is 800-1000 mm. (Determine by climate map differences in climates of subtropical zones.)

Temperate zones stretch in temperate latitudes from 40 s. and Yu. w. almost to the polar circles. Temperate air masses dominate here throughout the year, but arctic and tropical air masses can penetrate. In the Northern Hemisphere in the western continents, westerly winds and cyclonic activity predominate; in the east there are monsoons. As you move deeper into the territory, the annual amplitude of air temperature increases (the coldest month is from +4...+6 °C to –48 °C, and the warmest month is from +12 °C to +30 °C).

In the Southern Hemisphere, the climate is mainly oceanic. There are 5 types of climate in the Northern Hemisphere: maritime, moderate continental, continental, sharply continental, and monsoon.

The maritime climate is formed under the influence of westerly winds blowing from the ocean (Northern and Central Europe, western North America, Patagonian Andes of South America). In summer temperatures are about +15…+17 °C, in winter - +5 °C. Precipitation falls throughout the year and reaches 1000-2000 mm per year. In the Southern Hemisphere, the temperate zone is dominated by an oceanic climate with mild summers, mild winters, heavy rainfall, westerly winds, and unstable weather (“roaring” forties latitudes).

Continental climate is characteristic of the interior regions of large continents. In Eurasia, a moderate continental, continental, sharply continental climate, in North America - temperate continental and continental. On average, July temperatures vary from +10 °C in the north to +24 °C in the south. In a temperate continental climate, the January temperature drops from west to east from –5° to –10 °C, in a sharply continental climate - to –35…–40 °C, and in Yakutia below –40 °C. The annual precipitation in a temperate continental climate is approximately 500-600 mm, in a sharply continental climate - about 300-400 mm. In winter, as you move eastward, the duration of stable snow cover increases from 4 to 9 months, and the annual temperature range also increases.

The monsoon climate is best expressed in Eurasia. In summer, a stable monsoon from the ocean prevails, the temperature is +18...+22 °C, in winter - –25 °C. At the end of summer - beginning of autumn, typhoons from the sea with gusty winds and heavy precipitation are frequent. Winters are relatively dry as the winter monsoon blows inland. Precipitation in the form of rain predominates in summer (800-1200 mm).

The subpolar zones (subarctic and subantarctic) are located north and south of the temperate zone. They are characterized by seasonal changes in air masses: moderate air masses dominate in summer, and arctic (Antarctic) air masses dominate in winter. Continental subarctic climate is characteristic of the northern margins of North America and Eurasia. Summer is relatively warm (+5…+10 °C) and short. Winter is severe (up to –55 °C). Here is the pole of cold in Oymyakon and Verkhoyansk (–71 °C).

Small amount of precipitation - 200 mm. Permafrost and excessive moisture are widespread, and large areas are swamped. The oceanic climate in the Northern Hemisphere is formed in the Greenland and Norwegian Seas, in the Southern Hemisphere - around Antarctica. Cyclonic activity is widespread throughout the year. Cool summers (+3…+5 °C), floating sea and continental ice, relatively mild winters (–10…–15 °C). Winter precipitation is up to 500 mm, fog is constant.

The polar zones (Arctic and Antarctic) are located around the poles. Continental climate prevails in Antarctica, Greenland, and the islands of the Canadian Arctic archipelago. There are negative temperatures all year round.

Oceanic climate is observed mainly in the Arctic. Temperatures here are negative, but during the polar day they can reach +2 °C. Precipitation - 100-150 mm (Fig. 16).

Climatic zones differ from each other in air temperature, atmospheric pressure, air masses and precipitation. The climate of the temperate zone from west to east changes from maritime to moderate continental, continental, sharply continental, and monsoon.

Very varied. The first climate classifications appeared in the 70s of the 19th century and were of a descriptive nature. According to the classification of Moscow State University professor B.P. Alisov, there are 7 types of climates on Earth, which make up climatic zones. 4 of them are basic, and 3 are transitional. The main types include:

Equatorial climate zone. This type of climate is characterized by the dominance of equatorial climates throughout the year. On the days of the spring (March 21) and autumn (September 21) equinox, the Sun is at its zenith above the equator and greatly heats the Earth. The air temperature in this climate zone is constant (+24-28°C). At sea, temperature fluctuations can generally be less than 1°. The annual amount of precipitation is significant (up to 3000 mm); on the windward slopes of the mountains, precipitation can fall up to 6000 mm. The amount of precipitation here exceeds evaporation, so in the equatorial climate they are swampy, and dense and tall trees grow on them. The climate of this zone is also influenced by the trade winds, which bring an abundance of precipitation here. The equatorial climate type is formed over northern regions; on the coast of the Gulf of Guinea, over the basin and headwaters, including the shores of Lake Victoria in Africa; over most of the Indonesian archipelago and adjacent parts and the Pacific Oceans in Asia.
Tropical climate zone. This type of climate forms two tropical climate zones (in the Northern and Southern Hemisphere) over the following areas.

In this type of climate, the state of the atmosphere over the continent and the ocean is different, therefore continental tropical climate and oceanic tropical climate.

Continental climate zone: the region dominates over a large territory, so very little precipitation falls here (from 100-250 mm). The mainland tropical climate is characterized by very hot summers (+35-40°C). In winter, the temperature is much lower (+10-15°C). There are large daily temperature fluctuations (up to 40 °C). The absence of clouds in the sky leads to the formation of clear and cold nights (clouds could trap heat coming from the Earth). Sharp daily and seasonal temperature changes contribute, which produces a lot of sand and dust. They are picked up by winds and can be transported over considerable distances. These dusty sandstorms are a great danger for a traveler in.

Mainland tropical climates The western and eastern coasts of the continents are very different from each other. Cold currents pass along the western coasts of South America and Africa, so the climate here is characterized by relatively low air temperatures (+18-20°C) and low precipitation (less than 100 mm). Along the eastern coasts of these continents there are warm currents Therefore, temperatures here are higher and there is more precipitation.

Oceanic tropical climate similar to the equatorial one, but differs from it in smaller and more stable winds. Summer over the oceans is not so hot (+20-27°C), and winter is cool (+10-15°C). Precipitation falls mainly in summer (up to 50 mm). Moderate. There is a significant influence of westerly winds, bringing precipitation throughout the year. Summer in this climate zone is moderately warm (from +10°C to +25-28°C). Winter is cold (from +4°С to -50°С). Annual precipitation ranges from 1000 mm to 3000 mm on the outskirts of the continent and up to 100 mm in the interior. The differences between the seasons of the year are clearly visible. This type of climate also forms two zones in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres and is formed over areas of temperate latitudes (from 40-45° northern and southern latitudes to the polar circles). A region is formed above these territories low pressure, active cyclonic activity. Temperate climates are divided into two subtypes:

nautical, which dominates in the western parts of North America and South America, is formed under the direct influence of westerly winds from the ocean to the mainland, therefore it is characterized by cool summers (+15-20°C) and warm winters (from +5°C). Precipitation brought by westerly winds falls all year round(from 500 mm to 1000 mm, in the mountains up to 6000 mm);
continental, dominant in central regions continents, differs from it. Cyclones penetrate here less often than in coastal areas, so summers here are warm (+17-26°C), and winters are cold (-10-24°C) with stable snow cover for many months. Due to the significant extent of Eurasia from west to east, the most pronounced continental climate is observed in Yakutia, where average January temperatures can drop to -40°C and there is little precipitation. This happens because the interior of the continent is not exposed to the same influence of the oceans as the coasts, where moist winds not only bring precipitation, but also mitigate the heat in summer and frost in winter.

The monsoon subtype of temperate climate, dominant in the east of Eurasia to Korea and in the north, northeast, is characterized by a change in stable winds (monsoons) over the seasons, which affects the amount and regime of precipitation. In winter, a cold wind blows from the continent, so the winter is clear and cold (-20-27°C). In summer the winds bring warm rainy weather. In Kamchatka, precipitation falls from 1600 to 2000 mm.

In all subtypes of temperate climates, only moderate air masses dominate.

Polar climate type. Above 70° north and 65° south latitudes, a polar climate prevails, forming two zones: and. Polar air masses prevail here all year round. The sun does not appear at all for several months (polar night) and does not go below the horizon for several months (polar day). Snow and ice emit more heat than they receive, so the air is very cool and does not melt all year round. Throughout the year, these territories are dominated by the region high pressure, so the winds are weak and there are almost no clouds. There is very little precipitation, the air is saturated with small ice needles. As they settle, they provide a total of only 100 mm of precipitation per year. The average summer temperature does not exceed 0°C, and winter -20-40°C. Long drizzle is typical for summer.

Equatorial, tropical, temperate, polar climate types are considered the main ones, since within their zones the air masses characteristic of them dominate throughout the year. Between the main climatic zones there are transitional ones, which have the prefix “sub” (Latin for “under”) in their names. In transitional climate zones, air masses change seasonally. They come here from neighboring belts. This is explained by the fact that as a result of the movement of the Earth around its axis, climatic zones shift either to the north or to the south.

There are three additional climate types:

Subequatorial climate. In summer, this belt is dominated by equatorial air masses, and in winter by tropical ones.

Summer: a lot of precipitation (1000-3000 mm), average +30°C. Even in the spring the sun reaches its zenith and burns mercilessly.

Winter is cooler than summer (+14°C). There is little precipitation. Soils dry out after summer rains, so in the subequatorial climate, unlike the equatorial climate, swamps are rarely found. The territory is favorable for human settlement, which is why many centers of civilization are located here - Indochina. According to N.I. , it is from here that many varieties of cultivated plants originated. The northern subequatorial belt includes: South America (Isthmus of Panama); Africa (Sahel belt); Asia (India, all of Indochina, South China, ). The southern subequatorial belt includes: South America (Amazonian lowland); Africa (centre and east of the continent); (northern coast of the mainland).

Subtropical climate . Here in summer tropical air masses dominate, and in winter air masses of temperate latitudes invade here, carrying precipitation. This determines the following weather in these areas: hot, dry summer(from +30 to +50°С) and relatively Cold winter with precipitation, no stable snow cover is formed. Annual precipitation is about 500 mm. Inside the continents in subtropical latitudes there is little precipitation even in winter. The climate here is dominated by dry subtropics with hot summers (up to +50°C) and unstable winters, when frosts down to -20°C are possible. Precipitation in these areas is 120 mm or less. In the western parts of the continents it dominates, which is characterized by hot, partly cloudy summers without precipitation and cool, windy and rainy winters. The Mediterranean climate receives more precipitation than the dry subtropics. The annual precipitation here is 450-600 mm. The Mediterranean climate is extremely favorable for human life, which is why the most famous summer resorts are located here. Valuable subtropical crops are grown here: citrus fruits, grapes, olives.

The subtropical climate of the eastern coasts of the continents is monsoon. Winter here, compared to other climates of the subtropical zone, is cold and dry, and summer is hot (+25°C) and humid (800 mm). This is explained by the influence of the monsoons, which blow from land to sea in winter, and from sea to land in summer, bringing precipitation in summer. The monsoon subtropical climate is well expressed only in the Northern Hemisphere, especially in east coast Asia. Heavy rainfall in summer time give the opportunity to develop magnificently. The fertile soils here support the life of more than a billion people.

Subpolar climate. In summer, humid air masses come here from temperate latitudes, so summers are cool (from +5 to +10°C) and about 300 mm of precipitation falls (in the northeast of Yakutia 100 mm). As elsewhere, precipitation increases on windward slopes. Despite a small amount of precipitation, the moisture does not have time to evaporate completely, therefore, in the north of Eurasia and North America, small lakes are scattered in the subpolar zone, and large areas are swampy. In winter, the weather in this climate is influenced by Arctic and Antarctic air masses, so there are long, cold winters, temperatures can reach -50°C. Subpolar climate zones are located only on the northern edges of Eurasia and North America and in the Antarctic waters.

The air temperature here is constant (+24° -26°C); at sea, temperature fluctuations can be less than 1°. The annual amount of precipitation is up to 3000 mm, and in the mountains of the equatorial belt, precipitation can fall up to 6000 mm. More water falls from the sky than evaporates, so there are many wetlands and dense rain forests- jungle. Remember the adventure films about Indiana Jones - how difficult it is for the main characters to make their way through the dense vegetation of the jungle and escape from the crocodiles who adore muddy waters small forest streams. All this is the equatorial belt. Its climate is greatly influenced by the trade winds, which bring heavy rainfall from the ocean.

Northern: Africa (Sahara), Asia (Arabia, southern Iranian Plateau), North America (Mexico, Western Cuba).

Southern: South America (Peru, Bolivia, Northern Chile, Paraguay), Africa (Angola, Kalahari Desert), Australia (central part of the continent).

In the tropics, the state of the atmosphere over the continent (earth) and the ocean is different, therefore a continental tropical climate and an oceanic tropical climate are distinguished.

The oceanic climate is similar to the equatorial climate, but differs from it in less cloudiness and stable winds. Summers over the oceans are warm (+20-27°C), and winters are cool (+10-15°C).

Over the tropical land (mainland tropical climate), a high pressure area prevails, so rain is a rare guest here (from 100 to 250 mm). This type of climate is characterized by very hot summers (up to +40°C) and cool winters (+15°C). The air temperature can change dramatically during the day - up to 40°C! That is, a person can languish from the heat during the day and shiver from the cold at night. Such changes lead to destruction rocks, creating a mass of sand and dust, which is why dust storms are frequent here.

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This type of climate, like the tropical one, forms two zones in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, which form over areas of temperate latitudes (from 40-45° North and South latitudes to the Arctic Circles).

There are many cyclones in the temperate zone, causing the weather to become capricious and produce either snow or rain. In addition, westerly winds blow here, which bring precipitation all year round. Summers in this climate zone are warm (up to +25°-28°C), winters are cold (from +4°C to -50°C). Annual precipitation ranges from 1000 mm to 3000 mm, and in the center of the continents it is only up to 100 mm.

In the temperate climate zone, unlike the equatorial and tropical ones, the seasons are clearly defined (that is, you can build snowmen in winter and swim in a river in summer).

Temperate climate is also divided into two subtypes - marine and continental.

Marine dominates the western parts of North America, South America and Eurasia. It is formed by westerly winds blowing from the ocean to the mainland, so it has fairly cool summers (+15 -20°C) and warm winters (from +5°C). Precipitation brought by westerly winds falls all year round (from 500 to 1000 mm, in the mountains up to 6000 mm).

Continental predominates in the central regions of the continents. Cyclones penetrate here less frequently, so there are warmer and drier summers (up to +26°C) and colder winters (up to -24°C), and the snow lasts a very long time and melts reluctantly.

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Polar belt

It dominates the territory above 65°-70° latitude in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, therefore it forms two zones: Arctic and Antarctic. U Polar belt There is unique feature- The sun here does not appear at all for several months (polar night) and does not go below the horizon for several months (polar day). Snow and ice reflect more heat than they receive, so the air is very cool and the snow does not melt for most of the year. Since a high pressure area is forming here, there are almost no clouds, the winds are weak, and the air is saturated with small ice needles. The average summer temperature does not exceed 0°C, and in winter it ranges from -20° to -40°C. Rain falls only in the summer in the form of tiny droplets - drizzle.

Between the main climatic zones there are transitional zones, which have the prefix “sub” in their names (translated from Latin as “under”). Here, air masses change seasonally, coming from neighboring belts under the influence of the Earth's rotation.

a) Subequatorial climate. In summer, all climatic zones shift to the north, so equatorial air masses begin to dominate here. They shape the weather: a lot of precipitation (1000-3000 mm), average air temperature +30°C. Even in the spring the sun reaches its zenith and burns mercilessly. In winter, all climatic zones shift south, and in subequatorial belt Tropical air masses begin to dominate, winter is cooler than summer (+14°C). There is little precipitation. The soils dry out after summer rains, so in the subequatorial zone, unlike the equatorial zone, there are few swamps. The territory of this climatic zone is favorable for human life, which is why many centers of civilization are located here.

The subequatorial climate forms two zones. The northern ones include: the Isthmus of Panama ( Latin America), Venezuela, Guinea, the Sahel desert belt in Africa, India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, all of Indochina, Southern China, part of Asia. TO southern zone include: the Amazonian lowland, Brazil (South America), central and eastern Africa and the northern coast of Australia.

b) Subtropical climate. Here tropical air masses predominate in summer, and in winter - air masses of temperate latitudes, which determines the weather: hot, dry summers (from +30°C to +50°C) and relatively cold winters with precipitation, and no stable snow cover is formed.

c) Subpolar climate. This climate zone is located only on the northern edges of Eurasia and North America. In summer, humid air masses come here from temperate latitudes, so summers here are cool (from +5°C to +10°C) Despite the small amount of precipitation, evaporation is low, since the angle of incidence sun rays is small and the earth does not warm up well. Therefore, in the subpolar climate in northern Eurasia and North America there are many lakes and swamps. In winter, cold arctic air masses come here, so winters are long and cold, temperatures can drop to -50°C.