Mediterranean climate

Mediterranean Climate

The Mediterranean climate or dry summer climate is characterized by dry summers and mild, wet winters. The climate receives its name from the Mediterranean Basin, where this type of climate is most common.

Characteristics

Mediterranean climate zones are associated with the five large subtropical high-pressure cells of the oceans: the Azores High, South Atlantic High, North Pacific High, South Pacific High, and Indian Ocean High. These climatic zones have a climate similar to that of the Mediterranean Basin, the Southwest United States, and parts of Western and South Australia.

Distribution

A Mediterranean climate is typically found along the western sides of continents, between roughly 30 and 45 degrees north and south of the equator. The main cause of this climate is the subtropical ridge, a high-pressure area which descends in the subtropics at around 30 degrees latitude.

Ecology

The Mediterranean climate is associated with a diverse range of vegetation, from evergreen forests to scrublands. It is home to many endemic plant species. The vegetation of the Mediterranean climate zones is adapted to survive long, hot summer droughts.

See also

• Köppen climate classification
• Oceanic climate
• Humid subtropical climate