Types of climates of the earth and their properties. What climate is typical for Russia: arctic, subarctic, temperate and subtropical

In the article brought to your attention, we want to talk about the types of climate in Russia. Weather conditions remain always the same, despite the fact that they can change and transform slightly. This constancy makes some regions attractive for recreation, while others - difficult to survive.

It is important to note that Russia's climate is unique and cannot be found in any other country. Of course, this can be explained by the vast expanses of our state and its length. A different location water resources and the variety of terrain only contributes to this. On the territory of Russia, you can find both high mountain peaks and plains that lie below sea level.

Climate

Before we look at the types of climate in Russia, we suggest getting acquainted with this term itself.

Thousands of years ago in Ancient Greece people have discovered a connection between the weather, which is regularly repeated, and the angle of incidence of the sun's rays on the Earth. At the same time, the word "climate" began to be used for the first time, meaning slope. What did the Greeks mean by this? It's very simple: climate is the inclination of the sun's rays relative to earth's surface.

What is meant by climate today? This term is commonly used to call the long-term weather regime prevailing in a given area. It is determined by observations over many years. What are the characteristics of the climate? These include:

  • temperature;
  • the amount of precipitation;
  • precipitation regime;
  • Direction of the wind.

This is, so to speak, the average state of the atmosphere in a certain area, which depends on many factors. What exactly is at stake, you will learn in the next section of the article.

Factors influencing climate formation

Considering the climatic zones and types of climate in Russia, one cannot but pay attention to the factors that are fundamental for their formation.

Climate-forming factors in Russia:

  • geographical position;
  • relief;
  • large reservoirs;
  • solar radiation;
  • wind.

What is the main climate-forming factor? Of course, the angle of incidence of the sun's rays on the surface of the Earth. It is this slope that leads to the fact that different territories receive an unequal amount of heat. It depends on the geographic latitude. Therefore, it is said that the climate of any locality, to begin with, depends on the geographical latitude.

Imagine this situation: our Earth, or rather its surface, is homogeneous. Let's assume that this is a continuous land, which consists of plains. If this were the case, then our story could be completed on climate-forming factors. But the surface of the planet is far from homogeneous. We can find continents, mountains, oceans, plains and so on on it. They are the reason for the existence of other factors that affect the climate.

Particular attention can be paid to the oceans. What is it connected with? Of course, with the fact that water masses heat up very quickly, and cool down extremely slowly (compared to land). And the seas and oceans are a significant part of the surface of our planet.

Speaking about the types of climate on the territory of Russia, of course, I would like to pay special attention to the geographical position of the country, since this factor is fundamental. In addition, the distribution of solar radiation and air circulation depend on the HP.

We propose to highlight the main features of the geographical position of Russia:

  • large extent from north to south;
  • availability of access to three oceans;
  • simultaneous presence in four climatic zones at once;
  • the presence of territories that are far removed from the oceans.

Types

In this section of the article you can see the table "Types of climates in Russia". Before that, a little preface. Our country is so large that it stretches for four and a half thousand kilometers from north to south. Most of the area is in temperate climate zone(from the Kaliningrad region to Kamchatka). However, even in the temperate zone, the influence of the oceans is not uniform. Now let's move on to the table.

Location

t (January)

Rainfall (mm)

Vegetation

Arctic

Islands of the Arctic Ocean

200 to 400

Moss, lichen and algae.

Subarctic

Russian and West Siberian Plains outside the Arctic Circle

400 to 800

UVM and AVM

Polar varieties of willow and birch, as well as lichens.

temperate continental

European part of the country

600 to 800

Larch, maple, ash, spruce, pine, cedar, shrubs, herbs, oak, cranberries, feather grass and so on.

Continental

Western part of Siberia

400 to 600

Siberian and Daurian larch, honeysuckle, spruce, pine, feather grass, wild rosemary.

sharp continental

East of Siberia

200 to 400

Wormwood, Dahurian larch.

From the table on geography “Types of climates in Russia” presented in this section of the article, it becomes clear how diverse our country is. But the characteristics of the belts are given extremely concisely, we propose to consider each of them in more detail.

Arctic

The first in our table is the arctic type of weather conditions. Where can it be found? These are zones located near the pole. In total, two types of arctic climate are distinguished:

  • in the Antarctic;
  • in the Arctic.

As for the weather conditions, these territories6 stand out for their harsh nature, which does not imply comfortable living for people in this area. The temperature here is below zero all year round, and the polar summer comes for only a few weeks or is completely absent. The temperature at this moment does not exceed ten degrees Celsius. There is very little rainfall in these areas. Based on such weather conditions, there is very little vegetation in the Arctic belt.

Moderate

Considering the types of climate in Russia, one cannot lose sight of the temperate zone, since these are the most common weather on the territory of our country.

What characterizes the temperate climate zone? First of all, this is the division of the year into four seasons. As you know, two of them are transitional - spring and autumn, in summer it is warm in these territories, and cold in winter.

Another feature is periodic cloudiness. Precipitation here is a fairly common occurrence, they are formed under the influence of cyclones and anticyclones. There is one interesting pattern: the closer the area is to the ocean, the more noticeable this effect.

It is also important to note that most of Our country is located in a temperate climate. In addition, such weather conditions are characteristic of the United States and much of Europe.

Subpolar

Speaking about the characteristics of the types of climate in Russia, one cannot ignore the intermediate option. For example, anyone can determine the climate in the Arctic, but what about the tundra? Difficult to answer? It is important to note that this territory simultaneously combines a temperate and polar climate. For this reason, scientists have identified intermediate climatic zones.

Now we are talking about northern Russia. There is very poor evaporation, but incredibly high level precipitation. All this leads to the formation of swamps. Quite severe weather conditions: short summer with maximum temperature fifteen degrees above zero, long and cold winter (down to -45 degrees Celsius).

Nautical

Although this species is not included in the main types of Russian climate, I would like to pay a little attention to it. Here you can make small distinctions:

  • moderate;
  • tropical.

These varieties of maritime climate have similarities, despite the fact that there are a number of impressive differences. As the name implies, the maritime climate is typical for coastal areas. Here you can observe a very smooth transition of the seasons, minimal temperature fluctuations. Its characteristic features:

  • strong wind;
  • high cloudiness;
  • constant humidity.

Continental

Among the types of climate in Russia, it is worth highlighting the continental. It can be divided into several types:

  • moderate;
  • cutting;
  • ordinary.

Most a prime example- the central part of Russia. Among the features of the climate are the following:

  • sunny weather;
  • anticyclones;
  • strong temperature fluctuations (daily and annual);
  • rapid change from winter to summer.

As can be seen from the table, these regions are rich in vegetation, and the temperature varies greatly depending on the season.

In accordance with the classification of climates by B.P. Alisov, in various climatic zones on the land the following main types of climate are formed ( fig.10).

Fig.10. Climatic zones of the Earth:

1 - equatorial; 2 - subequatorial; 3 - tropical; 4 - subtropical; 5 - moderate; 6 - subarctic; 7 - subantarctic; 8 - arctic; 9 - Antarctic

equatorial belt located in equatorial latitudes, reaching 8° latitude in places. The total solar radiation is 100–160 kcal/cm2 year, the radiation balance is 60–70 kcal/cm2 year.

Equatorial hot humid climate occupies the western and central parts of the continents and the islands of the Indian Ocean and the Malay Archipelago in the equatorial belt. Average monthly temperatures are +25 - +28° all year round, seasonal fluctuations are 1–3°. The circulation is monsoonal: in January, the winds are northern, in July - southern. Annual precipitation is usually 1000–3000 mm (sometimes more), with uniform precipitation throughout the year. Humidification is excessive. Constantly high temperatures and high air humidity make this type of climate extremely difficult for a person, especially for a European. There is the possibility of year-round tropical farming with the cultivation of two crops per year.

FROM at backquato R ial belts located in the subequatorial latitudes of both hemispheres, sometimes reaching 20 ° latitude, as well as in equatorial latitudes on the eastern margins of the continents. The total solar radiation is 140–170 kcal/cm2 year. Radiation balance 70–80 kcal/cm 2 year. In connection with the seasonal movement of the intertropical baric depression from one hemisphere to another following the zenithal position of the Sun, there is a seasonal change air masses, winds and weather. In winter, each hemisphere is dominated by CTs, trade winds towards the equator, and anticyclonic weather. In the summer of each hemisphere, computers dominate, winds (equatorial monsoon) of the counter-trade wind from the equator, cyclonic weather.

Subequatorial climate with sufficient moisture adjoins directly to the equatorial climate and occupies most of the subequatorial belts, except for regions adjacent to tropical climates. Average temperatures in winter are +20 - +24°, in summer - +24 - +29°, seasonal fluctuations are within 4–5°. Annual rainfall is typically 500–2000 mm (maximum at Cherrapunji). Dry winter season associated with the dominance of continental tropical air, the wet summer season is usually associated with the equatorial monsoon and the passage of cyclones along the ETC line and lasts more than six months. The exceptions are the eastern slopes of the Hindustan and Indochina peninsulas and northeast Sri Lanka, where the maximum precipitation is winter, due to the saturation of the winter continental monsoon with moisture over the South China Sea and the Bay of Bengal. Humidification on average per year is from close to sufficient to excessive, but it is distributed very unevenly over the seasons. The climate is favorable for growing tropical crops.

Subequatorial climate with insufficient moistureeniem adjoins tropical climates: in South America-Caatinga, in Africa -Sahelip-somalia, in Asia - the west of the Indo-Gangetic lowland and northwest of Hindustan, in Australia - the south coast of the Gulf of Carpentaria and the peninsula of Arnhemland. vast area of ​​the continents in these latitudes) +27 - +32°, slightly lower in the south - +25 - +30°; seasonal fluctuations are 6–12°. Here, most of the year (up to 10 months) is dominated by CT and anticyclonic weather. The annual rainfall is 250–700 mm. The dry winter season is due to the dominance of tropical air; the wet summer season is associated with the equatorial monsoon and lasts less than half a year, in some places only 2 months. Moisture is inadequate everywhere. The climate makes it possible to grow tropical crops after carrying out measures to improve soil fertility and with additional irrigation.

T R optically e belts located in tropical latitudes, reaching 30–35° latitude in places; and on the western outskirts of South America and Africa in the southern hemisphere, the tropical belt wedges out, because here, due to cold ocean currents, intertropical baric depression all year round located north of the equator and the southern subtropical climate zone reaches the equator. Tropical air masses and trade wind circulation dominate throughout the year. The total solar radiation reaches its maximum on the planet: 180–220 kcal/cm2 year. Radiation balance 60–70 kcal/cm2 year.

Tropical climate bedesert deserts formed on the western outskirts of the continents under the influence of cold ocean currents. Average winter temperatures are +10 - +20°, summer - +16 - +28°, seasonal temperature fluctuations are 6–8°. Tropical sea chilled air is carried throughout the year by the trade winds blowing along the coast. The annual amount of precipitation is low due to the trade wind inversion - 50–250 mm and only in some places up to 400 mm. Precipitation falls mainly in the form of clouds and fogs. Humidification is severely inadequate. Tropical farming is possible only in oases with artificial irrigation and systematic work to improve soil fertility.

clandmat of tropical continental deserts typical for the interior regions of the continents and is distinguished by the most pronounced features of continentality within the tropical zones. The average winter temperatures are +10 - + 24 °, summer - in the northern hemisphere +29 - + 38 °, in the southern - + 24 - + 32 °; seasonal temperature fluctuations in the northern hemisphere 16–19°, in the southern - 8–14°; diurnal fluctuations often reach 30°. Throughout the year, dry KTV dominates, carried by trade winds. The annual amount of precipitation is 50–250 mm. Precipitation falls sporadically, extremely unevenly: in some areas it may not rain for several years, and then a downpour will pass. There are frequent cases when raindrops do not reach the ground, evaporating in the air when approaching the hot surface of a rocky or sandy desert. Humidification is severely inadequate. Due to extremely high summer temperatures and dryness, this type of climate is extremely unfavorable for Agriculture: Tropical farming is possible only in oases on abundantly and systematically irrigated lands.

The climate is tropicalesky wet confined to the eastern margins of the continents. Formed under the influence of warm ocean currents. Average temperatures in winter are +12 - +24°, in summer - +20 - +29°, seasonal temperature fluctuations are 4–17°. The warmed MTV, brought from the ocean by trade winds, dominates all year round. The annual precipitation is 500–3000 mm, and the eastern windward slopes receive approximately twice as much precipitation as the western leeward slopes. Precipitation falls throughout the year with a summer maximum. Humidification is sufficient, only in some places on the leeward slopes it is somewhat insufficient. The climate is favorable for tropical agriculture, but the combination of high temperatures with high humidity makes it difficult for humans to bear.

subtropical e belt located beyond the tropical belts in subtropical latitudes, reaching 42–45 ° latitude. Everywhere there is a seasonal change of air masses: moderate air masses dominate in winter, and tropical ones in summer. The total solar radiation is within 120–170 kcal/cm2 year. The radiation balance is usually 50–60 kcal/cm 2 year, only in some places it decreases to 45 kcal (in South America) or rises to 70 kcal (in Florida).

subtropical avgeMediterranean climate formed on the western outskirts of the mainland and adjacent islands. Average winter temperatures under the influence of the MU invasion are homogeneous: +4 - + 12 °, frosts occur, but rare and short; summer temperatures in the northern hemisphere +16 - + 26 ° and in the southern - +16 - + 20 °, only in Australia reach +24 °; seasonal fluctuations in temperatures 12–14 °. There is a seasonal change of air masses, winds and weather. The winter of each hemisphere is dominated by ISW, westerly winds and cyclonic weather; in summer - KTV, trade winds and anticyclonic weather. Annual precipitation is 500–2000 mm. Precipitation is extremely uneven: western windward slopes usually receive twice as much precipitation as eastern leeward slopes. Periods alternate: wet winter (due to the ISW and the passage of cyclones along the polar front) and dry summer (due to the predominance of CTs). Precipitation falls more often in the form of rains, in winter occasionally - in the form of snow, moreover, a stable snow cover does not form and after a few days the fallen snow melts. Humidification is sufficient on the western and insufficient on the eastern slopes. This climate is the most comfortable for living on the planet. It is favorable for agriculture, especially subtropical (irrigation is sometimes required on the leeward slopes), and is also very favorable for human habitation. This contributed to the fact that it was in the areas of this type of climate that the most ancient civilizations were born and has long been concentrated a large number of population. Currently, there are many resorts in the areas of the Mediterranean climate.

subtropical continenal arid climate confined to the interior regions of the continents in subtropical zones. Average winter temperatures in the northern hemisphere are often negative -8 - + 4 °, in the southern - +4 - + 10 °; summer temperatures in the northern hemisphere + 20 - + 32 ° and in the southern - + 20 - + 24 °; °, in the south - 14–16 °. Continental air masses dominate throughout the year: moderate in winter, tropical in summer. Annual precipitation in the northern hemisphere is 50–500 mm, in the southern hemisphere - 200–500 mm. Humidification is insufficient, especially sharply insufficient in the northern hemisphere. In this climate, agriculture is possible only with artificial irrigation, pasture cattle breeding is also possible.

Subtropicalequal toerno wetmonsoonalclimate characteristic of the eastern margins of the continents in the subtropical belts. Formed under the influence of warm ocean currents. Average winter temperatures in the northern hemisphere are -8 - +12° and in the southern - +6 - +10°, in summer in the northern hemisphere +20 - +28° and in the southern - +18 - +24°; seasonal temperature fluctuations in the northern hemisphere are 16–28° and in the southern hemisphere - 12–14°. There is a seasonal change in air masses and winds during year-round cyclonic weather: in winter, the KUV dominates, brought by the winds of the western directions, in the summer - the warm MTV, brought by the winds of the eastern directions. Annual rainfall is 800–1500 mm, in some places up to 2000 mm. At the same time, precipitation falls throughout the year: in winter, due to the passage of cyclones along the polar front, in summer they are brought by oceanic monsoons formed from trade winds. In winter, precipitation in the form of snow prevails in the northern hemisphere, while in the southern hemisphere, winter snowfalls are very rare. In the northern hemisphere, snow cover can form for weeks to months (especially in inland areas), while in the southern hemisphere, as a rule, no snow cover forms. Humidification is sufficient, on the eastern slopes - somewhat excessive. This type of climate is favorable for human habitation and for economic activity However, in some regions, winter frosts limit the spread of subtropical agriculture.

Mind R military belts are located beyond the subtropical belts in both hemispheres, reaching in places 58–67 ° N latitude. in the northern hemisphere and 60–70° S.l. - in the south. The total solar radiation is usually within 60–120 kcal/cm2 year and only over the northern part Central Asia, due to the predominance of anticyclonic weather there, it reaches 140–160 kcal/cm2 year. The annual radiation balance in the northern hemisphere is 25–50 kcal/cm 2 and 40–50 kcal/cm 2 in the southern hemisphere due to the predominance of land areas adjacent to the subtropical zone. Moderate air masses dominate throughout the year.

Diedecurrent maritime climate It is formed on the western outskirts of the continents and adjacent islands under the influence of warm ocean currents, and only in South America - the cold Peruvian Current. Winters are mild: average temperatures are +4 - +8°, ​​summers are cool: average temperatures are +8 - +16°, seasonal temperature fluctuations are 4–8°. All-the-year-round prevailing winds and westerly transfer winds, the air is characterized by high relative and moderate absolute humidity, fogs are frequent. The windward slopes of western exposure receive especially a lot of precipitation: 1000–3000 mm/year; on the eastern leeward slopes, precipitation is 700–1000 mm. The number of cloudy days in a year is very high; precipitation falls throughout the year with a summer maximum associated with the passage of cyclones along the polar front. Humidification is excessive on the western slopes and sufficient on the eastern ones. The mildness and humidity of the climate are favorable for horticulture and meadow growing, and in connection with this, dairy farming. There are conditions for year-round marine fisheries.

temperate climate, laneerunning frommaritimeto continental, is formed in areas immediately adjacent from the east to areas of temperate maritime climate. Winter is moderately cold: in the northern hemisphere 0 - -16 °, there are thaws, in the southern - 0 - + 6 °; summer is not hot: +12 - +24° in the northern hemisphere, +9 - +20° in the southern hemisphere; seasonal temperature fluctuations in the northern hemisphere are 12–40°, in the southern hemisphere - 9–14°. This transitional climate is formed when the influence of western transport is weakened as the air moves to the east, as a result, the air cools in winter and loses moisture, and warms up more in summer. Precipitation is 300–1000 mm/year; the maximum precipitation is associated with the passage of cyclones along the polar front: at higher latitudes in summer, at lower latitudes in spring and autumn. Due to significant differences in temperature and precipitation, humidification is from excessive to insufficient. In general, this type of climate is quite favorable for human habitation: it is possible to grow crops with a short growing season and livestock, especially dairy.

temperate continental climate formed in the interior of the continents only in the northern hemisphere. Winter is the coldest in temperate zones, long, with persistent frosts: average temperatures in North America are -4 - -26 °, in Eurasia - -16 - -40 °; summer is the hottest in temperate zones: average temperatures are +16 - +26°, in some places up to +30°; seasonal temperature fluctuations in North America are 30–42°, in Eurasia - 32–56°. A more severe winter in Eurasia is due to the larger size of the continent in these latitudes and the vast expanses occupied by permafrost. The WHC dominates all year round; in winter, stable winter anticyclones with anticyclonic weather are established over the territory of these regions. Annual precipitation is more often in the range of 400–1000 mm, only in Central Asia it decreases to less than 200 mm. Precipitation falls unevenly throughout the year, the maximum is usually confined to the warm season and is associated with the passage of cyclones along the polar front. Humidification is heterogeneous: there are territories with sufficient and unstable moisture, there are also arid regions. Human habitat conditions are quite diverse: logging, forestry and fisheries are possible; opportunities for agriculture and animal husbandry are limited.

Moderatemonsoonalclimate formed on the eastern outskirts of Eurasia. Winter is cold: average temperatures are -10 - -32 °, summer is not hot: average temperatures are +12 - + 24 °; seasonal fluctuations in temperatures 34–44 °. There is a seasonal change in air masses, winds, and weather: in winter, KUV, northwestern winds, and anticyclonic weather prevail; in summer - MUW, southeasterly winds and cyclonic weather. Annual precipitation is 500–1200 mm with a pronounced summer maximum. In winter, a small snow cover forms. Humidification is sufficient and somewhat excessive (on the eastern slopes), the continentality of the climate increases from east to west. The climate is favorable for human habitation: agriculture and various animal husbandry, forestry and crafts are possible.

Temperate climate with cold and snowy winters is formed on the northeastern margins of the continents of the northern hemisphere within the temperate zone under the influence of cold ocean currents. Winter is cold and long: average temperatures are -8 - -28 °; summer is relatively short and cool: average temperatures are +8 - +16 °; seasonal temperature fluctuations 24–36°. In winter, the KUV dominates, sometimes the KAV breaks through; MUV penetrates in summer. The annual rainfall is 400–1000 mm. Precipitation falls throughout the year: in winter, heavy snowfalls are generated by the invasion of cyclones along the Arctic front, a long and stable snow cover exceeds 1 m; in summer, precipitation is brought by the oceanic monsoon and is associated with cyclones along the polar front. Humidification is excessive. The climate is difficult for human habitation and economic activity: there are conditions for the development of reindeer herding, breeding sled dogs, and fishing; farming opportunities are limited by a short growing season.

Suba R ktictic belt located beyond the temperate belt in subarctic latitudes and reaches 65–75° N. latitude. The total solar radiation is 60–90 kcal/cm2 year. Radiation balance +15 - +25 kcal / cm 2 year. Seasonal change of air masses: arctic air masses dominate in winter, moderate in summer.

Subarcticmaritime climate confined to the marginal regions of the continents in the subarctic zone. Winter is long, but moderately severe: average temperatures are -14 - -30 °, only in Western Europe warm currents soften the winter to -2 °; summer is short and cool: average temperatures are +4 - +12 °; seasonal fluctuations in temperatures 26–34 °. Seasonal change of air masses: Arctic predominantly sea air in winter, moderate sea air in summer. The annual amount of precipitation is 250–600 mm, and on the windward slopes of the coastal mountains - up to 1000–1100 mm. Precipitation falls throughout the year. Winter precipitation is associated with the passage of cyclones along the Arctic front, which bring snowfalls and snowstorms. In summer, precipitation is associated with the penetration of ISW - it falls in the form of rain, but there are also snowfalls, dense fogs are often observed, especially in coastal areas. Humidification is sufficient, and on the coasts - excessive. The conditions for human habitation are rather harsh: the development of agriculture is limited to cool short summer with a corresponding short growing season.

Subarcticcontinemental climate is formed in the interior of the continents in the subarctic zone. In winter, long, severe and persistent frosts: average temperatures -24 - -50 °; summer is cool and short: average temperatures are +8 - +14 °; seasonal temperature fluctuations are 38–58°, and in some years they can reach 100°. In winter, the CAW dominates, which spreads in different directions from winter continental anticyclones (Canadian and Siberian); in summer, the EHW and its inherent western transport predominate. Precipitation is 200–600 mm per year, the summer maximum of precipitation is clearly pronounced due to the penetration of the ISW into the mainland at this time; snowy winter. Humidification is sufficient. The conditions for human habitation are very harsh: farming at low summer temperatures and a short growing season is difficult, there are opportunities for forestry and crafts.

Subantarctic belt is located beyond the southern temperate zone and reaches 63–73°S. The total solar radiation is 65–75 kcal/cm2 year. Radiation balance +20 - +30kcal/cm2 year. Seasonal change of air masses: Antarctic air dominates in winter, moderate in summer.

Subantarcticmaritime climate occupies the entire subantarctic belt, land only on the Antarctic Peninsula and on individual islands. Winter is long and moderately severe: average temperatures are -8 - -12 °; summer is short, very cool and damp: average temperatures are +2 - + 4 °; seasonal temperature fluctuations are 10 - 12 °. eastward winds inherent in it, while the CAW, as it passes over the ocean, heats up a little and transforms into MAW; in summer, ISW and westward winds dominate. The annual precipitation is 500–700 mm with a winter maximum associated with the passage of cyclones along the Antarctic front. Humidification is excessive. The conditions for human habitation are harsh, there is an opportunity for the development of seasonal marine fisheries.

arctic belt located in the northern subpolar latitudes. The total solar radiation is 60–80 kcal/cm2 year. Radiation balance +5 - +15 kcal / cm 2 year. Arctic air masses dominate throughout the year.

Arctic climate with relatively mild winters confined to areas of the Arctic belt subject to the softening effect of the relatively warm waters of the Atlantic and Pacific oceans: in North America- the coast of the Beaufort Sea, the north of Baffin Island and the coast of Greenland; in Eurasia - on the islands from Svalbard to northern land and on the mainland from the Yamal Peninsula to western Taimyr. Winter is long, relatively mild: average temperatures are -16 - -32 °; summer is short, average temperatures are 0 - + 8 °; seasonal temperature fluctuations 24–32°. Arctic, predominantly maritime air masses dominate all year round, sea air has a softening effect. The annual precipitation is 150–600 mm at the summer maximum associated with the passage of cyclones along the Arctic front. Humidification is sufficient and excessive. The climate for human habitation is unfavorable due to its severity and constancy of low temperatures; there is the possibility of seasonal fisheries.

Arctic climate with cold winter occupies the rest of the Arctic belt, except for the interior of Greenland, is influenced by the cold waters of the Arctic Ocean. Winter is long and severe: average temperatures are -32 - -38 °; summers are short and cold: average temperatures are 0 - + 8 °; seasonal temperature fluctuations 38–40°. KAV dominates all year round. The annual rainfall is 50–250 mm. Humidification is sufficient. Conditions for human habitation are extreme due to constantly low temperatures. Life is possible only if there are stable external ties to provide food, fuel, clothing, etc. Seasonal marine fisheries are possible.

Arctic climate with coldest winters stands out in the interior of Greenland, is formed under the year-round influence of the Greenland ice sheet and the Greenland anticyclone. Winter lasts almost the whole year, severe: average temperatures are -36 - -49 °; in summer, there are no stable positive temperatures: average temperatures are 0 - -14 °; seasonal temperature fluctuations 35–46°. Year-round dominance of the KAV and spreading winds in all directions. Humidification is sufficient. Climatic conditions for human habitation are the most extreme on the planet due to constant very low temperatures in the absence of local sources of heat and food. Life is possible only if there are stable external ties to provide food, fuel, clothing, etc. There are no opportunities for fishing.

Antarctic belt is located in the southern subpolar latitudes, mainly on the Antarctic continent, and the climate is formed under the dominant influence of the ice sheet of Antarctica and the Antarctic belt relatively high pressure. The total solar radiation is 75–120 kcal/cm2 year. Due to the year-round dominance of the continental Antarctic air, dry and transparent over the ice sheet, and the multiple reflection of the sun's rays during the polar day in summer from the surface of ice, snow and clouds, the value of the total solar radiation in the interior of Antarctica reaches the value of the total radiation in the subtropical zone. However, the radiation balance is -5 - -10 kcal / cm 2 year, and the whole year it is negative, due to the large albedo of the ice sheet surface (reflected up to 90% solar radiation). The exceptions are small oases, freed from snow in summer. Antarctic air masses dominate throughout the year.

Antarctic climate with comparatively mild winters formed over the marginal waters of the Antarctic continent. Winter is long and somewhat softened by Antarctic waters: average temperatures are -10 - -35 °; summer is short and cold: average temperatures are -4 - -20 °, only in oases are summer temperatures of the surface air layer positive; seasonal temperature fluctuations 6–15°. The Antarctic maritime air has a moderating effect on the climate, especially in summer, penetrating with cyclones along the Antarctic front. The annual precipitation of 100–300 mm with a summer maximum is associated with cyclonic activity along the Antarctic front. Precipitation in the form of snow prevails throughout the year. Humidification is excessive. The climate for human habitation is unfavorable due to its severity and the constancy of low temperatures; it is possible to conduct seasonal fisheries.

Antarctic climate with the coldest winter confined to the interior regions of the Antarctic continent. Temperatures are negative all year round, there are no thaws: average winter temperatures are -45 - -72 °, summer - -25 - -35 °; seasonal temperature fluctuations 20–37°. Continental Antarctic air dominates all year round, winds spread from the anticyclonic center of the periphery, southeast direction prevails. The annual precipitation is 40–100 mm, precipitation falls in the form of ice needles and hoarfrost, less often in the form of snow. Throughout the year, anticyclonic cloudy weather prevails. Humidification is sufficient. Living conditions for humans are similar to the Arctic climate with cold winters.

Climate- this is a long-term weather regime characteristic of a particular area. It manifests itself in a regular change of all types of weather observed in this area.

Climate influences living and non-living nature. In close dependence on the climate are water bodies, soil, vegetation, animals. Individual sectors of the economy, primarily agriculture, are also very dependent on climate.

The climate is formed as a result of the interaction of many factors: the amount of solar radiation entering the earth's surface; atmospheric circulation; the nature of the underlying surface. At the same time, climate-forming factors themselves depend on the geographical conditions of a given area, primarily on geographical latitude.

The geographic latitude of the area determines the angle of incidence of the sun's rays, the receipt of a certain amount of heat. However, obtaining heat from the Sun also depends on the proximity of the ocean. In places far from the oceans, there is little precipitation, and the mode of precipitation is uneven (in the warm period more than in the cold), cloudiness is low, winters are cold, summers are warm, and the annual temperature amplitude is large. Such a climate is called continental, as it is typical of places located in the depths of continents. A maritime climate is formed above the water surface, which is characterized by: a smooth course of air temperature, with small daily and annual temperature amplitudes, high cloudiness, a uniform and fairly large amount of precipitation.

The climate is greatly influenced by sea ​​currents. Warm currents warm the atmosphere in the areas where they flow. So, for example, the warm North Atlantic current creates favorable conditions for the growth of forests in the southern part of the Scandinavian Peninsula, while most of the island of Greenland, which lies approximately at the same latitudes as the Scandinavian Peninsula, but is outside the zone of influence of the warm current, all year round covered with a thick layer of ice.

plays an important role in shaping the climate relief. You already know that with the rise of the terrain for each kilometer, the air temperature drops by 5-6 ° C. Therefore, on the alpine slopes of the Pamirs, the average annual temperature is 1 ° C, although it is located just north of the tropic.

The location of mountain ranges has a great influence on the climate. For example, Caucasian mountains they hold back moist sea winds, and on their windward slopes facing the Black Sea, much more precipitation falls than on their leeward slopes. At the same time, the mountains serve as an obstacle to the cold northern winds.

There is a dependence of climate and prevailing winds. On the territory of the East European Plain, during almost the entire year, westerly winds coming from the Atlantic Ocean, so the winters in this area are relatively mild.

The regions of the Far East are under the influence of monsoons. In winter, winds constantly blow from the depths of the mainland. They are cold and very dry, so there is little rainfall. In summer, on the contrary, the winds bring a lot of moisture from the Pacific Ocean. In autumn, when the wind from the ocean subsides, the weather is usually sunny and calm. it best time years in this area.

Climate characteristics are statistical inferences from long-term weather records (in temperate latitudes, 25-50-year series are used; in the tropics, their duration may be shorter), primarily over the following main meteorological elements: atmospheric pressure, wind speed and direction, temperature and air humidity, cloudiness and precipitation. They also take into account the duration of solar radiation, the visibility range, the temperature of the upper layers of soil and water bodies, the evaporation of water from the earth's surface into the atmosphere, the height and condition of the snow cover, various atmospheric phenomena and ground-based hydrometeors (dew, ice, fog, thunderstorms, snowstorms, etc.) . In the XX century. The climatic indicators included characteristics of the elements of the heat balance of the earth's surface, such as total solar radiation, radiation balance, heat exchange between the earth's surface and the atmosphere, and heat consumption for evaporation. Complex indicators are also used, i.e., functions of several elements: various coefficients, factors, indices (for example, continentality, aridity, moisture), etc.

Climatic zones

Long-term average values ​​of meteorological elements (annual, seasonal, monthly, daily, etc.), their sums, frequencies, etc. are called climate standards: the corresponding values ​​for individual days, months, years, etc. are considered as a deviation from these norms.

Climate maps are called climatic(temperature distribution map, pressure distribution map, etc.).

Depending on the temperature conditions, prevailing air masses and winds, climatic zones.

The main climatic zones are:

  • equatorial;
  • two tropical;
  • two moderate;
  • arctic and antarctic.

Between the main belts there are transitional climatic zones: subequatorial, subtropical, subarctic, subantarctic. In transitional zones, air masses change with the seasons. They come here from neighboring belts, so the climate subequatorial belt in summer it is similar to the climate of the equatorial zone, and in winter - to the tropical climate; the climate of the subtropical zones in summer is similar to the climate of the tropical, and in winter - with the climate of the temperate zones. This is due to the seasonal movement of atmospheric pressure belts over the globe following the Sun: in summer - to the north, in winter - to the south.

Climatic zones are divided into climatic regions. So, for example, in the tropical zone of Africa, areas of tropical dry and tropical humid climates are distinguished, and in Eurasia, the subtropical zone is divided into areas of the Mediterranean, continental and monsoon climate. AT mountainous areas formed altitudinal zonality because the air temperature decreases with altitude.

Diversity of Earth's climates

The classification of climates provides an ordered system for characterizing climate types, their zoning and mapping. Let us give examples of climate types prevailing over vast territories (Table 1).

Arctic and Antarctic climate zones

Antarctic and arctic climate dominates in Greenland and Antarctica, where the average monthly temperatures are below 0 °C. Into the dark winter time year, these regions do not receive solar radiation at all, although there are twilight and auroras. Even in summer, the sun's rays fall on the earth's surface at a slight angle, which reduces the heating efficiency. Most of the incoming solar radiation is reflected by the ice. In both summer and winter, the elevated regions of the Antarctic Ice Sheet are dominated by low temperatures. The climate of the interior of Antarctica is much colder than the climate of the Arctic, because southern mainland is different large sizes and heights, and the Arctic Ocean moderates the climate, despite the wide distribution of pack ice. In summer, during short periods of warming, drift ice sometimes melts. Precipitation on ice sheets falls in the form of snow or small particles of ice mist. Inland regions receive only 50-125 mm of precipitation annually, but more than 500 mm can fall on the coast. Sometimes cyclones bring clouds and snow to these areas. Snowfalls are often accompanied by strong winds that carry significant masses of snow, blowing it off the slope. Strong katabatic winds with snowstorms blow from the cold glacial sheet, bringing snow to the coast.

Table 1. Climates of the Earth

Climate type

Climate zone

Average temperature, ° С

Mode and amount of atmospheric precipitation, mm

Atmospheric circulation

Territory

Equatorial

Equatorial

During a year. 2000

Warm and humid equatorial air masses form in the area of ​​low atmospheric pressure.

Equatorial regions of Africa, South America and Oceania

tropical monsoon

Subequatorial

Mostly during the summer monsoon, 2000

South and Southeast Asia, West and Central Africa, Northern Australia

tropical dry

Tropical

During the year, 200

North Africa, Central Australia

Mediterranean

Subtropical

Mainly in winter, 500

In summer - anticyclones at high atmospheric pressure; winter - cyclonic activity

Mediterranean, Southern coast of Crimea, South Africa, Southwestern Australia, Western California

subtropical dry

Subtropical

During a year. 120

Dry continental air masses

Inland parts of the continents

temperate maritime

Moderate

During a year. 1000

westerly winds

Western parts of Eurasia and North America

temperate continental

Moderate

During a year. 400

westerly winds

Inland parts of the continents

moderate monsoon

Moderate

Mostly during the summer monsoon, 560

Eastern margin of Eurasia

Subarctic

Subarctic

During the year, 200

Cyclones prevail

Northern margins of Eurasia and North America

Arctic (Antarctic)

Arctic (Antarctic)

During the year, 100

Anticyclones predominate

The water area of ​​the Arctic Ocean and mainland Australia

subarctic continental climate formed in the north of the continents (see. climate map atlas). In winter, arctic air prevails here, which is formed in areas of high pressure. On the eastern regions Canadian Arctic air is distributed from the Arctic.

Continental subarctic climate in Asia, it is characterized by the largest annual amplitude of air temperature on the globe (60-65 ° С). The continentality of the climate here reaches its limit.

average temperature in January it varies across the territory from -28 to -50 °С, and in the lowlands and hollows, due to air stagnation, its temperature is even lower. In Oymyakon (Yakutia), a record negative air temperature for the Northern Hemisphere (-71 °C) was registered. The air is very dry.

Summer in subarctic belt although short, but quite warm. The average monthly temperature in July ranges from 12 to 18 °C (daily maximum is 20-25 °C). Over the summer, more than half of the annual amount of precipitation falls, amounting to 200-300 mm on the flat territory, and up to 500 mm per year on the windward slopes of the hills.

The climate of the subarctic zone of North America is less continental than the corresponding climate of Asia. It has less cold winters and colder summers.

temperate climate zone

The temperate climate of the western coasts of the continents has pronounced features of the maritime climate and is characterized by the predominance of sea air masses throughout the year. It is observed on the Atlantic coast of Europe and the Pacific coast of North America. The Cordilleras are a natural boundary separating the coast with a maritime type of climate from the inland regions. The European coast, except for Scandinavia, is open to the free access of temperate maritime air.

The constant transfer of sea air is accompanied by high cloudiness and causes protracted springs, in contrast to the interior of the continental regions of Eurasia.

winter in temperate zone warm on the western coasts. The warming effect of the oceans is enhanced by warm sea currents washing the western shores of the continents. The average temperature in January is positive and varies across the territory from north to south from 0 to 6 °C. Intrusions of arctic air can lower it (on the Scandinavian coast down to -25°C, and on the French coast down to -17°C). With the spread of tropical air to the north, the temperature rises sharply (for example, it often reaches 10 ° C). In winter, on the western coast of Scandinavia, there are large positive temperature deviations from the average latitude (by 20 ° C). The temperature anomaly on the Pacific coast of North America is smaller and does not exceed 12 °С.

Summer is rarely hot. The average temperature in July is 15-16°C.

Even during the day, the air temperature rarely exceeds 30 °C. Due to frequent cyclones, all seasons are characterized by overcast and rainy weather. There are especially many cloudy days on the western coast of North America, where cyclones are forced to slow down in front of the Cordillera mountain systems. In connection with this, the weather regime in the south of Alaska is characterized by great uniformity, where there are no seasons in our understanding. Eternal autumn reigns there, and only plants remind of the onset of winter or summer. Annual rainfall ranges from 600 to 1000 mm, and on the slopes of mountain ranges - from 2000 to 6000 mm.

In conditions of sufficient moisture on the coasts developed broadleaf forests, and in conditions of excess - coniferous. Flaw summer heat reduces the upper limit of the forest in the mountains to 500-700 m above sea level.

The temperate climate of the eastern coasts of the continents It has monsoonal features and is accompanied by a seasonal change of winds: in winter, northwestern flows predominate, in summer - southeast. It is well expressed on the eastern coast of Eurasia.

In winter, with a northwest wind, cold continental temperate air spreads to the coast of the mainland, which is the reason for the low average temperature of the winter months (from -20 to -25 ° C). Clear, dry, windy weather prevails. In the southern regions of the coast, there is little rainfall. The north of the Amur region, Sakhalin and Kamchatka often fall under the influence of cyclones moving over the Pacific Ocean. Therefore, in winter there is a powerful snow cover, especially in Kamchatka, where it maximum height reaches 2 m.

In summer, with a southeasterly wind, temperate sea air spreads on the coast of Eurasia. Summers are warm, with an average July temperature of 14 to 18 °C. Precipitation is frequent due to cyclonic activity. Their annual amount is 600-1000 mm, and most of it falls in the summer. Fog is frequent at this time of the year.

Unlike Eurasia, the eastern coast of North America is characterized by maritime climate features, which are expressed in the predominance of winter precipitation and the marine type of annual air temperature variation: the minimum occurs in February, and the maximum occurs in August, when the ocean is at its warmest.

The Canadian anticyclone, unlike the Asian one, is unstable. It forms far from the coast and is often interrupted by cyclones. Winter here is mild, snowy, wet and windy. AT snowy winters the height of the snowdrifts reaches 2.5 m. When the south wind is often sleet. Therefore, some streets in some cities in eastern Canada have iron railings for pedestrians. Summers are cool and rainy. The annual rainfall is 1000 mm.

temperate continental climate it is most clearly expressed on the Eurasian continent, especially in the regions of Siberia, Transbaikalia, northern Mongolia, and also on the territory of the Great Plains in North America.

A feature of the temperate continental climate is the large annual amplitude of air temperature, which can reach 50-60 °C. In the winter months, with a negative radiation balance, the earth's surface cools down. The cooling effect of the land surface on the surface layers of air is especially great in Asia, where a powerful Asian anticyclone forms in winter and cloudy, calm weather prevails. The temperate continental air formed in the area of ​​the anticyclone has a low temperature (-0°...-40°C). In valleys and basins, due to radiation cooling, the air temperature can drop to -60 °C.

In the middle of winter, the continental air in the lower layers becomes even colder than the Arctic. This very cold air of the Asian anticyclone spreads to Western Siberia, Kazakhstan, southeastern regions of Europe.

The winter Canadian anticyclone is less stable than the Asian anticyclone due to the smaller size of the North American continent. Winters here are less severe, and their severity does not increase towards the center of the mainland, as in Asia, but, on the contrary, decreases somewhat due to the frequent passage of cyclones. Continental temperate air in North America has more high temperature than continental temperate air in Asia.

On the formation of the continental temperate climate geographical features of the territory of the continents have a significant impact. In North America, the Cordillera mountain ranges are a natural boundary separating the coast with a maritime climate from the inland regions with a continental climate. In Eurasia, a temperate continental climate is formed over a vast expanse of land, approximately from 20 to 120 ° E. e. Unlike North America, Europe is open to free penetration of sea air from the Atlantic deep into the interior. This is facilitated not only by the western transfer of air masses, which prevails in temperate latitudes, but also by the flat nature of the relief, the strong indentation of the coasts and the deep penetration into the land of the Baltic and North seas. Therefore, a temperate climate of a lesser degree of continentality is formed over Europe compared to Asia.

In winter, the Atlantic maritime air moving over the cold land surface of the temperate latitudes of Europe retains its physical properties for a long time, and its influence extends to the whole of Europe. In winter, as the Atlantic influence weakens, the air temperature decreases from west to east. In Berlin it is 0 °С in January, -3 °С in Warsaw, -11 °С in Moscow. At the same time, the isotherms over Europe have a meridional orientation.

The orientation of Eurasia and North America with a wide front to the Arctic Basin contributes to the deep penetration of cold air masses onto the continents throughout the year. Intense meridional transport of air masses is especially characteristic of North America, where arctic and tropical air often replace each other.

Tropical air entering the plains of North America with southern cyclones is also slowly transformed due to its high speed of movement, high moisture content and continuous low cloudiness.

In winter, the result of intense meridional circulation of air masses are the so-called “jumps” of temperatures, their large daily amplitude, especially in areas where cyclones are frequent: in the north of Europe and Western Siberia, Great Plains of North America.

In the cold period, they fall in the form of snow, a snow cover forms, which protects the soil from deep freezing and creates a supply of moisture in the spring. The height of the snow cover depends on the duration of its occurrence and the amount of precipitation. In Europe, a stable snow cover on the flat territory is formed east of Warsaw, its maximum height reaches 90 cm in the northeastern regions of Europe and Western Siberia. In the center of the Russian Plain, the height of the snow cover is 30–35 cm, and in Transbaikalia it is less than 20 cm. On the plains of Mongolia, in the center of the anticyclonic region, snow cover forms only in some years. The absence of snow along with the low winter air temperature causes the presence permafrost, which is no longer observed anywhere on the globe under these latitudes.

In North America, the Great Plains have little snow cover. To the east of the plains, tropical air begins to take part in the frontal processes more and more, it intensifies the frontal processes, which causes heavy snowfalls. In the Montreal area, the snow cover lasts up to four months, and its height reaches 90 cm.

Summer in the continental regions of Eurasia is warm. The average July temperature is 18-22°C. In arid regions of southeastern Europe and Central Asia, the average air temperature in July reaches 24-28 °C.

In North America, continental air is somewhat colder in summer than in Asia and Europe. This is due to the smaller extent of the mainland in latitude, the large indentation of its northern part with bays and fjords, the abundance of large lakes, and the more intense development of cyclonic activity compared to the interior regions of Eurasia.

In the temperate zone, the annual amount of precipitation on the flat territory of the continents varies from 300 to 800 mm; on the windward slopes of the Alps, more than 2000 mm falls. Most of the precipitation falls in the summer, which is primarily due to an increase in the moisture content of the air. In Eurasia, there is a decrease in precipitation across the territory from west to east. In addition, the amount of precipitation also decreases from north to south due to a decrease in the frequency of cyclones and an increase in air dryness in this direction. In North America, a decrease in precipitation across the territory is noted, on the contrary, in the direction to the west. Why do you think?

Most of the land in the continental temperate zone is occupied by mountain systems. These are the Alps, the Carpathians, the Altai, the Sayans, the Cordillera, the Rocky Mountains, and others. In the mountainous regions, the climatic conditions differ significantly from the climate of the plains. In summer, the air temperature in the mountains drops rapidly with altitude. In winter, when cold air masses invade, the air temperature in the plains often turns out to be lower than in the mountains.

The influence of mountains on precipitation is great. Precipitation increases on the windward slopes and at some distance in front of them, and weakens on the leeward slopes. For example, differences in annual rainfall between the western and eastern slopes Ural mountains sometimes reach 300 mm. In mountains with height, precipitation increases to a certain critical level. In the Alps, the level of the greatest amount of precipitation occurs at an altitude of about 2000 m, in the Caucasus - 2500 m.

Subtropical climate zone

Continental subtropical climate determined by the seasonal change of temperate and tropical air. The average temperature of the coldest month in Central Asia is below zero in places, in the northeast of China -5...-10°С. The average temperature of the warmest month is in the range of 25-30°C, while daily highs can exceed 40-45°C.

The most strongly continental climate in the air temperature regime is manifested in the southern regions of Mongolia and in the north of China, where the center of the Asian anticyclone is located in the winter season. Here, the annual amplitude of air temperature is 35-40 °С.

Sharply continental climate in the subtropical zone for high mountain areas Pamir and Tibet, whose height is 3.5-4 km. The climate of the Pamirs and Tibet is characterized by cold winters, cool summers and low rainfall.

In North America, a continental arid subtropical climate is formed in closed plateaus and in intermountain basins located between the Coastal and Rocky Ranges. Summers are hot and dry, especially in the south, where the average July temperature is above 30°C. The absolute maximum temperature can reach 50 °C and above. In Death Valley, a temperature of +56.7 °C was recorded!

Humid subtropical climate characteristic of the eastern coasts of the continents north and south of the tropics. The main areas of distribution are the southeastern United States, some southeastern regions of Europe, northern India and Myanmar, eastern China and southern Japan, northeastern Argentina, Uruguay and southern Brazil, the coast of Natal in South Africa and the east coast of Australia. Summer in the humid subtropics is long and hot, with the same temperatures as in the tropics. The average temperature of the warmest month exceeds +27 °С, and the maximum temperature is +38 °С. Winters are mild, with average monthly temperatures above 0°C, but occasional frosts have a detrimental effect on vegetable and citrus plantations. In the humid subtropics, the average annual precipitation ranges from 750 to 2000 mm, the distribution of precipitation over the seasons is quite uniform. In winter, rains and rare snowfalls are brought mainly by cyclones. In summer, precipitation falls mainly in the form of thunderstorms associated with powerful inflows of warm and humid oceanic air, which are characteristic of the monsoonal circulation of East Asia. Hurricanes (or typhoons) appear in late summer and autumn, especially in the Northern Hemisphere.

subtropical climate with dry summers is typical of the western coasts of the continents north and south of the tropics. in southern Europe and North Africa such climatic conditions are typical for the coasts of the Mediterranean Sea, which was the reason to call this climate also mediterranean. Similar climate in southern California, central regions Chile, in the extreme south of Africa and in a number of areas in southern Australia. All these regions have hot summers and mild winters. As in the humid subtropics, there are occasional frosts in winter. In inland areas, summer temperatures are much higher than on the coasts, and often the same as in tropical deserts. In general, clear weather prevails. In summer, on the coasts near which ocean currents pass, there are often fogs. For example, in San Francisco, summers are cool, foggy, and the warmest month is September. The maximum precipitation is associated with the passage of cyclones in winter, when the prevailing air currents mix towards the equator. The influence of anticyclones and downward air currents over the oceans determine the dryness of the summer season. Average annual rainfall under sub tropical climate a ranges from 380 to 900 mm and reaches its maximum values ​​on the coasts and mountain slopes. In the summer, there is usually not enough rainfall for the normal growth of trees, and therefore a specific type of evergreen shrub vegetation develops there, known as maquis, chaparral, mal i, macchia and fynbosh.

Equatorial climate zone

Equatorial type of climate distributed in equatorial latitudes in the Amazon basin in South America and the Congo in Africa, on the Malay Peninsula and on the islands of Southeast Asia. Usually mean annual temperature about +26 °С. Due to the high noon position of the Sun above the horizon and the same length of the day throughout the year, seasonal temperature fluctuations are small. Humid air, cloudiness and dense vegetation prevent nighttime cooling and maintain maximum daytime temperatures below +37 °C, lower than at higher latitudes. The average annual rainfall in the humid tropics ranges from 1500 to 3000 mm and is usually evenly distributed over the seasons. Precipitation is mainly associated with the intratropical convergence zone, which is located slightly north of the equator. Seasonal shifts of this zone to the north and south in some areas lead to the formation of two precipitation maxima during the year, separated by drier periods. Every day, thousands of thunderstorms roll over the humid tropics. In the intervals between them, the sun shines in full force.

The country is located in middle and high latitudes, which is why there is a clear division into seasons. Atlantic air influences European part. The weather there is milder than in the east. The polar ones receive the least sun, maximum value reached in the Western Ciscaucasia.

The territory of the country lies at once in four main climatic zones. Each of them has its own temperature and precipitation rates. From east to west, there is a transition from the monsoon climate to the continental one. The central part is characterized by a distinct delimitation of the seasons. In the south, the temperature rarely drops below 0˚C in winter.

Climatic zones and regions of Russia

Map of climatic zones and regions of Russia / Source: smart-poliv.ru

Air masses play a decisive role in the division into belts. Within them are climatic regions. Between themselves, they differ in temperature, amount of heat and moisture. Below is a brief description of the climatic zones of Russia, as well as the areas that they include.

arctic belt

It includes the coast of the Arctic Ocean. In winter, severe frost prevails, the average January temperature exceeds -30˚C. The western part is slightly warmer due to the air from the Atlantic. In winter, the polar night sets in.

The sun shines in the summer, but due to the small angle of incidence of the sun's rays and the reflective properties of the snow, heat does not linger near the surface. A lot of solar energy is spent on melting snow and ice, so the temperature regime summer period approaches zero. The Arctic belt is characterized by a small amount of precipitation, most of which falls in the form of snow. The following climatic regions are distinguished:

  • Intraarctic;
  • Siberian;
  • Pacific;
  • Atlantic.

The most severe is the Siberian region, the Atlantic is mild, but windy.

subarctic belt

It includes the territories of the Russian and West Siberian Plains, located mainly and forest-tundra. Winter temperatures increase from west to east. Summer rates average +10˚C, and even higher near the southern borders. Even in the warm season, there is a threat of frost. There is little precipitation, the main share falls on rains and sleet. Due to this, waterlogging is observed in the soil. In this climatic zone, the following areas are distinguished:

  • Siberian;
  • Pacific;
  • Atlantic.

The lowest temperatures in the country were recorded in the Siberian region. The climate of the other two is moderated by cyclones.

Temperate zone

It includes most of the territory of Russia. Winters are snowy, sunlight reflects off the surface, causing the air to become very cold. AT summer time the amount of light and heat increases. In the temperate zone, there is a significant contrast between cold winters and warm summer. There are four main types of climate:

1) Temperate continental is in the western part of the country. Winters are not particularly cold thanks to the Atlantic air, and thaws often occur. The average summer temperature is +24˚C. The influence of cyclones causes a significant amount of precipitation in the summer.

2) Continental climate affects the territory of Western Siberia. Throughout the year, both arctic and tropical air penetrates into this zone. Winters are cold and dry, summers are hot. The influence of cyclones is weakening, so there is little precipitation.

3) Sharply continental climate dominates in Central Siberia. Throughout the territory there are very cold winters with little snow. Winter temperatures can reach -40˚C. In summer, the air warms up to +25˚C. Precipitation is scarce and falls as rain.

4) Monsoon type of climate prevails in the eastern part of the belt. In winter, continental air dominates here, and in summer - sea. Winter is snowy and cold. January figures are -30˚C. Summers are warm but humid, with frequent showers. The average July temperature exceeds +20˚C.

The following climatic regions are located within the temperate zone:

  • Atlantic-Arctic;
  • Atlantic-continental European (forest);
  • Continental West Siberian northern and central;
  • Continental East Siberian;
  • Monsoon Far East;
  • Pacific;
  • Atlantic-continental European (steppe);
  • Continental West Siberian southern;
  • Continental Eastern European;
  • Mountainous region of the Greater Caucasus;
  • Mountain region of Altai and Sayan.

subtropical climate

It includes a small area Black Sea coast. The mountains of the Caucasus do not let air flow from the east, so in winter it is warm in the Russian subtropics. Summer is hot and long. Snow and rain fall all year round, there are no dry periods. In the subtropics of the Russian Federation, only one region is distinguished - the Black Sea.

Climatic zones of Russia

Map of climatic zones of Russia / Source: meridian-workwear.com

A climate zone is a territory in which the same climatic conditions prevail. The division arose due to uneven heating of the Earth's surface by the sun. There are four climatic zones on the territory of Russia:

  • the first includes the southern regions of the country;
  • the second includes the regions of the west, north-west, as well as Primorsky Krai;
  • the third includes Siberia and the Far East;
  • the fourth includes the Far North and Yakutia.

Along with them, there is a special zone that includes Chukotka and territories beyond the Arctic Circle.

The climate of the regions of Russia

Krasnodar region

The minimum January temperature is 0˚C, the soil does not freeze through. The fallen snow quickly melts away. Most of the precipitation falls in the spring, causing numerous floods. Summer temperatures average 30˚C, drought begins in the second half. Autumn is warm and long.

central Russia

Winter starts from the end of November and lasts until mid-March. Depending on the region, January temperatures range from -12˚C to -25˚C. A lot of snow falls, which melts only with the onset of thaws. Extremely low temperatures occur in January. February is remembered by winds, often hurricanes. Heavy snowfalls in the last few years occur at the beginning of March.

Nature comes to life in April, but positive temperatures are set only in next month. In some regions, the threat of frost occurs in early June. Summer is warm and lasts 3 months. Cyclones bring thunderstorms and showers. Night frosts occur as early as September. There is a lot of rainfall this month. In October, a sharp cold snap occurs, foliage flies off the trees, it rains, sleet can fall.

Karelia

The climate is influenced by 3 neighboring seas, the weather is very changeable throughout the year. The minimum January temperature is -8˚C. A lot of snow falls. February weather is changeable: cold snaps are followed by thaws. Spring comes in April, the air warms up to + 10˚С during the day. Summer is short, really warm days only available in June and July. September is dry and sunny, but frosts are already occurring in some areas. Finally cold weather installed in October.

Siberia

One of the largest and coldest regions of Russia. Winter is not snowy, but very cold. In remote areas, the thermometer shows more than -40˚C. Snowfalls and winds are rare. The snow melts in April, and in the region with heat comes only in June. Summer marks are + 20˚С, there is little precipitation. In September, calendar autumn begins, the air cools quickly. By October, the rains are replaced by snow.

Yakutia

The average monthly temperature in January is -35˚C, in the Verkhoyansk region the air cools down to -60˚C. Cold time lasts at least seven months. There is little rainfall, daylight hours last 5 hours. Beyond the Arctic Circle, the polar night begins. Spring is short, comes in May, summer lasts 2 months. During the white nights, the sun does not set for 20 hours. Already in August, a rapid cooling begins. By October, the rivers are covered with ice, and the snow stops melting.

Far East

The climate is varied, ranging from continental to monsoonal. The approximate winter temperature is -24˚C, there is a lot of snow. There is little rainfall in spring. Summer is hot, with high humidity, August is considered a period of prolonged rains. Fog dominates the Kuriles, white nights begin in Magadan. The beginning of autumn is warm but rainy. The thermometer marks in mid-October show -14˚C. A month later, winter frosts set in.

Most of the country lies in the temperate zone, separate territories have their climatic features. The lack of heat is felt in almost all belts. The climate has a serious impact on human activities, and it must be taken into account in agriculture, construction, and transport.

Climatic conditions can change and transform, but in general terms they remain the same, making some regions attractive for tourism and others difficult to survive. It is worth understanding the existing species for a better understanding of the geographical features of the planet and a responsible attitude to the environment - humanity may lose some belts during global warming and other catastrophic processes.

What is climate?

This definition is understood as the established weather regime that distinguishes a particular area. It is reflected in the complex of all changes observed in the territory. Climate types affect nature, determine the state of water bodies and soils, lead to the emergence of specific plants and animals, and affect the development of economic and agricultural sectors. Formation occurs as a result of exposure to solar radiation and winds in combination with the variety of the surface. All these factors directly depend on the geographic latitude, which determines the angle of incidence of the rays, and hence the volume of heat production.

What affects the climate?

Determine what the weather will be like different conditions(other than geographic latitude). For example, proximity to the ocean has a strong impact. The farther the territory is from large waters, the less precipitation it receives, and the more uneven it is. Closer to the ocean, the amplitude of fluctuations is small, and all types of climate in such lands are much milder than continental ones. Sea currents are no less significant. For example, they warm the coast of the Scandinavian Peninsula, which contributes to the growth of forests there. At the same time, Greenland, which has a similar location, is covered with ice all year round. Strongly affects the formation of climate and relief. The higher the terrain, the lower the temperature, so it can be cold in the mountains even if they are in the tropics. In addition, the ridges can delay why there is a lot of precipitation on the windward slopes, and much less on the continent. Finally, it is worth noting the impact of winds, which can also seriously change the types of climate. Monsoons, hurricanes and typhoons carry moisture and noticeably affect the weather.

All existing types

Before studying each type separately, it is worth understanding general classification. What are the main types of climate? The easiest way to understand the example of a particular country. Russian Federation takes large area and the weather varies across the country. The table will help to study everything. The types of climates and the places where they prevail are distributed in it according to each other.

continental climate

Such weather prevails in regions located further beyond the maritime climate zone. What are its features? Continental climate is different sunny weather with anticyclones and an impressive amplitude both annual and daily temperatures. Here, summer quickly turns into winter. The continental type of climate can be further divided into temperate, harsh and normal. The best example is central part territory of Russia.

Monsoon climate

This type of weather is characterized by a sharp difference between winter and summer temperatures. In the warm season, the weather is formed under the influence of winds blowing on land from the sea. Therefore, in summer, the monsoon type of climate resembles a marine one, with heavy rains, high clouds, humid air and strong wind. In winter, the direction of the air masses changes. The monsoon type of climate begins to resemble continental - with clear and frosty weather and minimal rainfall throughout the season. Such variants of natural conditions are typical for several Asian countries - they are found in Japan, the Far East and northern India.