Climate Classification Ch. 14 Sec. 2 Climate Classification

Koeppen Classification System Developed by Russian-born Germ climatologist Wladimir Koeppen Based on monthly values of . . . 1) Temperature 2) Precipitation Also distinguished natural vegetation Designed a map to classify

Koeppen Classification System

Classification System Tropical climate: High temperatures 600 cm of rain Along w/ mT air, formations of rain forests

Classification System Dry climate: 30% of earth’s area, largest cT air mass, desert areas Low precipitation and vegetation High evaporation

Classification System Mild climates: Generally on the coasts Warm, muggy, high precipitation areas Can receive west air from ocean Warm winter and cool summers

Classification System Continental climates: Warm summer Cool summer Subarctic Climate battleground: rapid, violent changes in weather

Classification System Polar climates Coldest regions on earth (warmest month <10oC) Precipitation low: clouds hold less moisture High elevations

Microclimates Localized area that differs from surrounding region Heat Island Concrete buildings create a warmer climate than rural areas Large areas of asphalt and buildings