Ice cap climate

Oblique rays 04 Pengo

Hann glacier

Aialik glacier pano 2.jpg

Ursus maritimus mother with cub

Climate type characterized by permanent ice and snow cover

Template:Infobox climate An ice cap climate is a type of polar climate where the temperature is so cold that a permanent layer of ice and snow covers the ground throughout the year. This climate is classified under the Köppen climate classification as EF.

Characteristics

Ice cap climates are characterized by their extremely low temperatures, which rarely rise above freezing. The average monthly temperature in these regions is below 0°C (32°F) throughout the year. Due to the persistent cold, ice cap climates are typically found in the interior of Antarctica and on the Greenland ice sheet.

Precipitation

Precipitation in ice cap climates is very low, often less than 250 mm (10 inches) per year, and primarily falls as snow. Despite the low precipitation, the accumulation of snow over long periods contributes to the thick ice sheets found in these regions.

Flora and Fauna

The harsh conditions of ice cap climates make it nearly impossible for most forms of life to survive. Vegetation is virtually non-existent, and animal life is limited to species that can endure the extreme cold, such as certain types of penguins and seals in Antarctica.

Human Activity

Human activity in ice cap climates is minimal due to the extreme conditions. However, scientific research stations are established in these regions to study climate, ice cores, and other environmental factors. The Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station in Antarctica is one such example.

Related Climate Types

Ice cap climates are closely related to other polar climates, such as the tundra climate (ET), where the temperature is slightly higher, allowing for some vegetation growth during the short summer season.

See Also

• Polar climate
• Köppen climate classification
• Antarctica
• Greenland ice sheet
• Tundra climate