1. Four Factors that Influence Climate

2. 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.

3. 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.

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

5. 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.

6. #2: Elevation (Altitude)
For every 1000 feet above sea level, the temperature drops approximately 3° F.

7. #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)

8. #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