Climate Regions "Temperatures are rising four times faster, in China the Tibetan glaciers are retreating at a higher speed than in any other part of the world." "In the short term, this will cause lakes to expand and bring floods and mudflows." "In the long run, the glaciers are vital lifelines for Asian rivers, including the Indus and the Ganges. Once they vanish, water supplies in those regions will be in peril."

Climate and Vegetation Most of US has moderate mid-latitude climates - Most of Canada has colder high-latitude climates

Colder Climates Tundra found on Arctic coast of Canada and Alaska - Long cold winters, brief chilly summers, no trees

Colder Climates continued… Sub-arctic found in the rest of Alaska and most of Canada Covered with evergreen forest, permafrost - Highland – colder areas found in the Rockies and Pacific Ranges

Moderate Climates Humid Continental found in North Central and Northeast USA Distinct seasons, good for farming - Mixed evergreen and deciduous trees

Moderate Climates continued… Marine West Coast climate found along Pacific coast Winds from ocean cause large amounts of rain Moderate summers and mild winters - Rain allows for dense mixed vegetation

Milder Climates Humid Subtropical climate found in Southeast USA Hot and humid summers, mild winters - Warmth, humidity, and rainfall allow for a long growing season

Milder Climates continued… - Mediterranean climate found in coastal areas of central and southern California Dry, sunny, and warm all year - Excellent area for growing fruit and vegetables

Dry Climates Semiarid areas found in Great Plains Receive about 15 inches of rain a year - Land covered with grasses and shrubs

Dry Climates continued… Deserts found in Southwest USA, less than 10 inches of rain a year Cactus vegetation - Areas include Sonoran, Mojave, and Chihuahuan

Tropical Climates Tropical Rainforest found in Hawaii - Temperature always around 80 degrees, over 400 inches of rain a year, lush vegetation

Tropical Climates continued… Tropical Wet and Dry climate found in southern Florida Distinct wet and dry seasons Mostly covered with swampy Everglades - Vegetation is mostly grass and Mangrove trees

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