Four Factors that Influence Climate

Average weather an area typically experiences What is climate? Average weather an area typically experiences over a long period of time, which includes temperature and precipitation.

Factor #1: Latitude Did you know The earth’s tilt causes seasons and lengths of days? The relative location north or south of the equator influences temperature of an area The closer to the equator, the warmer it is, because of the direct rays of the sun.

What are the three latitude zones? 60-90°= POLAR 23.5-60°= TEMPERATE 0-23.5°= TROPICAL 23.5-60°= TEMPERATE 60-90°= POLAR

Q: Why is latitude the most important factor that influences climate? A: When an area is closer to the sun (ie. the tropics) the days are longer and the sun's rays are stronger. This heats the climate.

#2: Elevation (Altitude) For every 1000 feet above sea level, the temperature drops approximately 3° F.

#3: Location to a Large Body of Water Helps to moderate the climate Temperatures do not get too hot or too cold The area is more humid (moist)

#4: Wind and Ocean Currents Prevailing Winds - the most dominant winds in an area trade winds, westerlies, polar easterlies Ocean Currents - circulate hot and cold water around the earth Skeleton Coast, Namibia