{"id":765,"date":"2021-04-02T16:09:33","date_gmt":"2021-04-02T20:09:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pressbooks.bccampus.ca\/physgeoglabmanual1\/?post_type=back-matter&p=765"},"modified":"2021-04-04T12:44:56","modified_gmt":"2021-04-04T16:44:56","slug":"appendix-2-koppen-climate-classification-system","status":"publish","type":"back-matter","link":"https:\/\/pressbooks.bccampus.ca\/physgeoglabmanual1\/back-matter\/appendix-2-koppen-climate-classification-system\/","title":{"raw":"Appendix 2: K\u00f6ppen Climate Classification System","rendered":"Appendix 2: K\u00f6ppen Climate Classification System"},"content":{"raw":"

Appendix 2<\/span>: K\u00f6ppen Climate Classification System<\/h1>\r\n

INTRODUCTION<\/b><\/h1>\r\n[pb_glossary id=\"840\"]Climate[\/pb_glossary]<\/b> can be defined as the long-term trends observed in the state of the [pb_glossary id=\"841\"]weather[\/pb_glossary]<\/b> ([pb_glossary id=\"131\"]temperature[\/pb_glossary]<\/b>, [pb_glossary id=\"594\"]precipitation[\/pb_glossary]<\/b>, [pb_glossary id=\"692\"]humidity[\/pb_glossary]<\/b>, etc.) on a time scale of years to decades. Understanding these trends allows us to make predictions about what the weather may be like in the immediate future. Several systems have been developed for classifying the climates of locations found on our planet. The classification of data is a common process in all sciences. From classification, we can determine similarities and dissimilarities in the data. The classification process also helps us to identify patterns in data that are usually controlled by other factors. For the climate of locations found on the Earth, we will discover that locations with comparable climates are often influenced by similar climatic factors despite being geographically separated by great distances.\r\n\r\nThe [pb_glossary id=\"842\"]K\u00f6ppen Climate Classification system[\/pb_glossary]<\/b> is an empirical system that uses readily available precipitation and temperature data collected at weather stations. For the classification process, the data must be arranged as monthly totals of precipitation, monthly temperatures, annual total of precipitation, and annual temperature. Monthly temperature is calculated by first determining the daily means for all days in the month by finding the average of daily maximum and daily minimum temperatures. All the daily means are then added together and then divided by a value equal to the number of days in that particular month. Finally, monthly and annual temperature and precipitation data should be averaged over a number of consecutive years. This averaging evens out the natural variation normally found in climate data.\r\n

TROPICAL MOIST CLIMATES - \"A\" CLIMATES<\/b><\/h1>\r\nTropical moist climates extend northward and southward from the equator to about 15 to 25\u00b0 of latitude. In these climates, all months have average temperatures greater than 18\u00b0Celsius (64\u00b0Fahrenheit). Annual precipitation is often greater than 1500 mm (59 in). Three minor K\u00f6ppen climate types exist in the A group<\/b>. These three categories of tropical moist climate are distinguished by the seasonal distribution of [pb_glossary id=\"844\"]rainfall[\/pb_glossary]<\/b>.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n

Af \u2013 Tropical Wet<\/b><\/h2>\r\nAf<\/b> or tropical wet<\/b> is a tropical climate where precipitation occurs all year long. Monthly temperature variations in this climate are usually less than 3\u00b0C (37\u00b0F). Because of intense surface heating and high humidity, [pb_glossary id=\"846\"]cumulus[\/pb_glossary]<\/b> and [pb_glossary id=\"595\"]cumulonimbus[\/pb_glossary]<\/b> clouds ([pb_glossary id=\"623\"]thunderstorms[\/pb_glossary]<\/b>) form early in the afternoons almost every day. Daily highs are about 32\u00b0C (90\u00b0F). [pb_glossary id=\"847\"]Radiative cooling[\/pb_glossary]<\/b> during the evening is limited because of cloud cover and high humidity. Nighttime daily temperatures average about 22\u00b0C (72\u00b0F).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nLocations:<\/b> <\/b>Amazon River Basin (South America), Congo River Basin (Africa), eastern coast of Central America, eastern coast of Brazil, the Philippines, the coast of Madagascar, eastern India, southern Bangladesh, Malaysia, and Indonesia.\r\n\r\nControlling Weather Factors:<\/b> <\/b>High year-round input of high quantities of [pb_glossary id=\"848\"]solar radiation[\/pb_glossary]<\/b> (insolation<\/b>). High and constant monthly precipitation because of the presence of thunderstorm activity associated with the [pb_glossary id=\"624\"]Intertropical Convergence Zone[\/pb_glossary]<\/b>.\r\n\r\n\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nClimate Characteristics:<\/b> Constant high temperatures throughout the year. Average monthly temperatures are very similar - yearly range is about 2 to 3\u00b0C (36 to 37\u00b0F). Monthly precipitation is evenly distributed and annual amounts are usually greater than 1500 mm (59 in). These climates also have frequent cumulus cloud development with some of these clouds becoming air mass thunderstorms. Humidity tends to be high.\r\n\r\nExamples:\u00a0<\/span><\/b>\r\n\r\n\"\"\r\n\r\n\"\"\r\n

Aw \u2013 Tropical Wet and Dry<\/b><\/h2>\r\nThe tropical wet and dry<\/b> or savanna<\/b> (Aw<\/b>) has an extended dry season during winter. Precipitation during the wet season is usually less than 1000 millimeters (39 in), and only during the summer season. Average monthly temperatures for all months are greater than 18\u00b0C (64\u00b0F). More than two months have less than 60 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation. There is a distinct dry season during the low-sun period (winter) and a distinct wet season during the high-sun period (summer). These climates are generally poleward of Af<\/b> climate areas.\r\n\r\nLocations: <\/b>Northern and eastern India, central Myanmar, the Indo-Chinese Peninsula, northern Australia, region around the Congo River basin, south-central Africa, western Central America, parts of Venezuela, and parts of Brazil, the southern tip of Florida, and the Caribbean Islands.\r\n\r\nControlling Weather Factors:<\/b> Alternating wet and dry seasons caused by the seasonal presence of the Intertropical Convergence Zone during the high-sun season and the [pb_glossary id=\"629\"]Subtropical High Pressure Zone[\/pb_glossary]<\/b> during the low-sun season.\r\n\r\nClimate Characteristics: <\/b>Monthly precipitation data shows distinct high-sun wet and low-sun dry seasons. Annual rainfall averages between 750 and 1800 mm (30 and 71 in). This climate has the highest monthly temperature ranges of the A climate<\/b> category.\r\n\r\nExample:<\/b>\r\n\r\n\"\"\r\n

Am \u2013 Tropical Monsoon<\/b><\/h2>\r\nAm<\/b> is a tropical monsoon climate<\/b>. Annual rainfall is equal to or greater than Af<\/b>, but most of the precipitation falls in the 7 to 9 hottest months. Have a very pronounced wet season. During the dry season, very little rainfall occurs. Average monthly temperatures for all months is greater than 18\u00b0C (64\u00b0F). Have one or more months with less than 60 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nLocations:<\/b> Coastal areas of southwestern India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Myanmar, southwestern Africa, Guyana, Surinam, French Guiana, and parts of northeast and southeast Brazil.\r\n\r\nControlling Weather Factors:<\/b> [pb_glossary id=\"851\"]Monsoonal[\/pb_glossary]<\/b> summer onshore and winter offshore air mass movement related to seasonally shifting Intertropical Convergence Zone and changing surface atmospheric pressure conditions over the landmasses and ocean areas involved.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nClimate Characteristics:<\/b> Climate of this category is transitional between Af<\/b> and Aw<\/b>. Heaviest rainfall records in the world occur in this climate type (Cherripunji, India \u2013 12,000 mm (472 in)). Heavy rainfall is associated with the high-sun (summer) season. Precipitation can be greatly enhanced by [pb_glossary id=\"626\"]orographic uplift[\/pb_glossary]<\/b>. Yearly precipitation totals range from between 1500 to 4000 mm. Dry season is associated with the low-sun (winter) period. Annual temperature range of monthly averages is about 2 to 6\u00b0C (36 to 43\u00b0F). Highest monthly temperature often occurs just before the start of the rainy season.\r\n\r\nExample:\u00a0<\/span><\/b>\r\n\r\n\"\"\r\n

DRY CLIMATES - \"B\" CLIMATES\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/h1>\r\nThe most obvious feature of this climate is that [pb_glossary id=\"717\"]potential evapotranspiration[\/pb_glossary]<\/b> exceeds precipitation. These climates extend from 20 - 35\u00b0 North and South of the equator and in large continental regions of the mid-latitudes often surrounded by mountains. Four minor types of this climate occur:\r\n

BW - Dry Arid (Desert)\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/h2>\r\nBW<\/b> is a true desert climate. It covers 12% of the Earth's land surface and is dominated by [pb_glossary id=\"856\"]xerophytic[\/pb_glossary]<\/b> vegetation. The additional letters h<\/b> and k<\/b> are used generally to distinguish whether the dry arid climate is found in the subtropics or in the mid-latitudes, respectively.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nBWh \u2013 Dry Arid Low Latitudes<\/i><\/b>\r\n\r\nBWh<\/b> is a dry arid climate found in low latitude deserts. The most distinguishing aspect of this climate is that precipitation is less than 50% of potential evapotranspiration. Annual average temperature is over 18\u00b0C (64\u00b0F). Daily minimum temperatures infrequently go below 0\u00b0C (32\u00b0F) during the winter season.\r\n\r\nLocations: <\/b>Northern Mexico, southwestern United States, northern Africa Saudi Arabia, Iran, western India, central and western Australia, and southern and western Africa.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nBWk \u2013 Dry Arid Mid-Latitudes<\/i><\/b>\r\n\r\nBWk<\/b> is a dry arid climate<\/b> found in middle latitude deserts. Like BWh<\/b>, precipitation is less than half of potential evapotranspiration. Annual average temperature is below 18\u00b0C (64\u00b0F). Daily minimum temperatures can frequently go below 0\u00b0C (32\u00b0F) during the winter season.\r\n\r\nLocations:<\/b> From the Caspian Sea eastward to northern China, Mongolia, and parts of southern South America.\r\n\r\nControlling Weather Factors <\/b>(both BWh <\/b>and BWk<\/b>):<\/b> <\/b>Dominance of the Subtropical High Pressure Zone during most of the year. Locations are often far inland ([pb_glossary id=\"637\"]continentality[\/pb_glossary]<\/b>) and influenced by [pb_glossary id=\"638\"]rainshadow effect[\/pb_glossary]<\/b>.\r\n\r\nClimate Characteristics<\/b> (both BWh <\/b>and BWk<\/b>):<\/b> <\/b>Climate is very arid and air has low relative humidity. Rainfall is very irregular and unreliable. Annual rainfall totals less than 250 mm (10 in). BWh\/k<\/b> has the highest percentage of sunshine of all climate types. Diurnal (day to night) temperature ranges are the greatest of all climate types. Daily maximum temperatures are very high. Generally, windy conditions persist during the day.\r\n\r\nExample:\u00a0<\/span><\/b>\r\n\r\n\"\"\r\n

BS - Dry Semiarid (Steppe)\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/h2>\r\nThis is a grassland<\/b> climate that covers 14% of the Earth's land surface. It receives more precipitation than the BW<\/b> either from short incursions of the Intertropical Convergence Zone or from occasional [pb_glossary id=\"587\"]mid-latitude cyclones[\/pb_glossary]<\/b>. Again, the additional letters h<\/b> and k<\/b> are used generally to distinguish whether the dry semiarid climate is found in the subtropics or in the mid-latitudes, respectively.\r\n\r\nBSh \u2013 Semiarid Low Latitudes<\/i><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/b>\r\n\r\nBSh<\/b> is a semiarid climate found in the low latitudes. Potential evapotranspiration exceeds precipitation on average but the difference between these two measures is less than what is found in a BWh<\/b> climate. Annual average temperature is over 18\u00b0C (64\u00b0F). Annual precipitation totals greater than BWh<\/b> climate.\r\n\r\nLocations:<\/b> About 13 to 15\u00b0 North latitude in Africa, about 20\u00b0 South latitude southern Africa, border areas around Australian desert, parts of southern South America, parts of India, and areas marginal to BWh<\/b> climates of northwestern Africa, Saudi Arabia, and western India.\r\n\r\nExample:\u00a0<\/span><\/b>\r\n\r\n\"\"\r\n\r\nBSk \u2013 Semiarid Mid-Latitudes<\/i><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/b>\r\n\r\nBSk<\/b> is a semiarid climate usually found in the middle latitudes. Potential evapotranspiration exceeds precipitation on average but the difference between these two measures is less than what is found in a BWk<\/b> climate. Annual average temperature is below 18\u00b0C (64\u00b0F).\r\n\r\nLocations:<\/b> <\/b>Western plains of the United States, south-central Canada, and borders BWh<\/b> climate areas from the Caspian Sea eastward to China and Mongolia.\r\n\r\nControlling Weather Factors (both BSh and BSk):<\/b> Weather is transitional between deserts and humid climates. Dominance of the Subtropical High Pressure Zone occurs during most of the year. Precipitation comes from brief incursions of the Intertropical Convergence Zone or from sporadic mid-latitude cyclones. Locations are often far inland (continentality) and influenced by rainshadow effect.\r\n\r\nClimate Characteristics (both BSh and BSk):<\/b> <\/b>Climate is arid and air has low [pb_glossary id=\"698\"]relative humidity[\/pb_glossary]<\/b>. Rainfall is sporadic. Annual rainfall totals between 250 and 500 mm (10 and 20 in). Air temperatures for locations with this climate type vary greatly because of the effects of latitude, elevation, and continentality.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nExample:\u00a0<\/span><\/b>\r\n\r\n\"\"\r\n

MOIST SUBTROPICAL MID-LATITUDE CLIMATES - \"C\" CLIMATES\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/h1>\r\nThis climate generally has warm and humid summers with mild winters. Its extent is from 30 to 50\u00b0 of latitude mainly on the eastern and western borders of most continents. During the winter, the main weather feature is the [pb_glossary id=\"887\"]mid-latitude cyclone<\/strong>[\/pb_glossary]. Convective [pb_glossary id=\"623\"]thunderstorms[\/pb_glossary]<\/b> provide [pb_glossary id=\"594\"]precipitation[\/pb_glossary]<\/b> in the summer months. Several dominant minor types exist:\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nCfa \u2013 Humid Subtropical<\/b>\r\n\r\nThe humid subtropical climate (Cfa<\/b>) has hot muggy summers and frequent [pb_glossary id=\"623\"]thunderstorms[\/pb_glossary]<\/strong>. Winters are mild and precipitation during this season comes from [pb_glossary id=\"587\"]mid-latitude cyclones[\/pb_glossary]<\/strong>. This climate type is quite common on the east coasts of continents. A good example of a region of the world with a Cfa<\/b> climate is the southeastern USA. Average temperature of the warmest month is above 22\u00b0C (72\u00b0F). Average temperature of the coldest month is below 18\u00b0C (64\u00b0F) but above -3\u00b0C (27\u00b0F). Rainfall is equally spread out through the year.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nLocations:<\/b> Southeastern United States, northern Argentina, Uruguay, southern Brazil, southern Japan, and southern China.\r\n\r\nControlling Weather Factors:<\/b> [pb_glossary id=\"587\"]Mid-latitude cyclones[\/pb_glossary]<\/strong> in winter. Summer dominated by frequent thunderstorms because of the presence of [pb_glossary id=\"859\"]Maritime Tropical Air[\/pb_glossary] <\/b>masses and intense surface heating. [pb_glossary id=\"861\"]Tropical storms[\/pb_glossary] <\/b>and [pb_glossary id=\"860\"]hurricanes[\/pb_glossary]<\/b> during late summer and early fall can influence coastal regions of this climate type.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nClimate Characteristics:<\/b> <\/b>High humidity occurs in summer months. Summer climate is much like humid tropics. Frost can occasionally occur with the presence of [pb_glossary id=\"862\"]Continental Polar Air[\/pb_glossary] <\/b>masses in winter.\u00a0 <\/span>Precipitation varies from 650 to 2500 mm (26 and 98 in).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nExample:\u00a0<\/span><\/b>\r\n\r\n\"\"\r\n\r\nCfb\/Cfc \u2013 Marine<\/b>\r\n\r\nCfb\/Cfc marine<\/b> climates are often found on the western coasts of continents. They have a humid climate with short dry summers. Heavy precipitation occurs during the mild winters because of the continuous presence of mid-latitude cyclones.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nCfb: Marine - Mild Winter<\/i><\/b>\r\n\r\nThe average temperature of all months is less than 22\u00b0C (72\u00b0F). At least four months have an average temperature greater than 10\u00b0C (50\u00b0F). The average temperature of coldest month is below 18\u00b0C (64\u00b0F) but above -3\u00b0C (27\u00b0F). Precipitation is distributed evenly throughout year.\r\n\r\nCfc: Marine - Cool Winter\u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/b>\r\n\r\nThe average temperature of all months is less than 22\u00b0C (72\u00b0F). Only one to three months have an average temperature greater than 10\u00b0C (50\u00b0F). The average temperature of coldest month is below 18\u00b0C (64\u00b0F) but above -3\u00b0C (27\u00b0F). Precipitation is distributed equally throughout year.\r\n\r\nLocations:<\/b> <\/b>Coastal Oregon, Washington, west coast of Canada and southern west coast of Alaska, central and northwest Europe, southern Chile, southern coast of South Africa, southeast Australia and New Zealand.\r\n\r\nControlling Weather Factors (both Cfb and Cfc):<\/b> [pb_glossary id=\"587\"]Mid-latitude cyclones[\/pb_glossary]<\/strong> influence weather for most of the year. Warm [pb_glossary id=\"881\"]ocean currents[\/pb_glossary]<\/b> keep these climates mild in winter and cool in the summer. [pb_glossary id=\"882\"]Maritime Polar Air[\/pb_glossary]<\/b> masses influence these climates during the winter season.\r\n\r\nClimate Characteristics (both Cfb and Cfc):<\/b> <\/b>These climates have mild winters and cool summers with low annual temperature range. Weather activity at [pb_glossary id=\"885\"]frontal zones[\/pb_glossary]<\/b> produces heavy cloud cover and high humidity during fall, winter, and spring. Long periods of [pb_glossary id=\"883\"]rain[\/pb_glossary]<\/b> and [pb_glossary id=\"884\"]drizzle[\/pb_glossary]<\/b> from frequent occurrence of mid-latitude cyclones. Frost can sometimes occur during the winter season.\r\n\r\nExample:\u00a0<\/span><\/b>\r\n\r\n\"\"\r\n\r\nCwa\/Cwb\/Cwc \u2013 Dry Winter, Wet Summer\u00a0<\/span><\/b>\r\n\r\nCwa\/Cwb\/Cwc dry winter, wet summer<\/b> climates are generally found in the interiors of continents at the mid-latitudes. They have a humid climate with short dry summers. Heavy precipitation occurs during the summers because of the seasonal presence of unstable humid air masses that encourage the development of thunderstorms. These climates are quite limited in their distribution.\r\n\r\nLocations (Cwa\/Cwb\/Cwc):<\/b> Interior of central Mexico, northwestern Argentina, parts of Bolivia, Nepal, northern India, northern Bangladesh, northern Myanmar, parts of China, Angola, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and eastern South Africa.\r\n\r\nControlling Weather Factors (Cwa\/Cwb\/Cwc):<\/b> Climate is influenced by hot and unstable humid air masses that dominate generally in late spring, summer, and early fall. Relatively dry winter season is often due to the presence dry [pb_glossary id=\"862\"]Continental Polar Air[\/pb_glossary] <\/b>masses.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nClimate Characteristics (Cwa\/Cwb\/Cwc):<\/b> <\/b>High humidity occurs in summer months. Summer climate can be very similar to the humid tropics.\u00a0 <\/span>Winters tend to be dry and cool.\r\n\r\nExample:\u00a0<\/span><\/b>\r\n\r\n\"\"\r\n\r\nCsa\/Csb \u2013 Mediterranean<\/b>\r\n\r\nMediterranean climates (Csa\/Csb)<\/b> receive rain primarily during winter season from the mid-latitude cyclone. Extreme summer aridity is caused by the sinking air of the subtropical highs and may exist for up to 5 months. Locations in North America are from Portland, Oregon to all of California.\r\n\r\nCsa: Interior Mediterranean<\/i><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/b>\r\n\r\nWarm mid-latitude climate with distinctly dry hot summer caused by continental high-pressure influence. Average temperature of the coldest month is less than 18\u00b0C (64\u00b0F) but above -3\u00b0C (27\u00b0F). Wettest winter month has about 3 times more precipitation when compared to the driest summer month. Precipitation in driest summer month is less than 40 mm (1.6 in). Warmest month has average temperature above 22\u00b0C (72\u00b0F) and at least 4 months have average temperatures above 10\u00b0C (50\u00b0F).\r\n\r\nCsb: Coastal Mediterranean<\/i><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/b>\r\n\r\nCool mid-latitude climate with distinctly dry cool summer caused by maritime high-pressure influence. Average temperature of the coldest month is less than 18\u00b0C (64\u00b0F) but above -3\u00b0C (27\u00b0F). Wettest winter month has about 3 times more precipitation when compared to the driest summer month. Precipitation in driest summer month is less than 40 mm (1.6 in). No month in this climate type has an average temperature above 22\u00b0C (72\u00b0F) and at least 4 months have average temperatures above 10\u00b0C (50\u00b0F).\r\n\r\nLocations (both Csa and Csb):<\/b> Interior and coastal areas of California, interior and coastal areas of Chile, area around the Mediterranean Sea, Iranian highlands, southwest tip of South Africa, and southern and southwestern regions of Australia.\r\n\r\nControlling Weather Factors (both Csa and Csb):<\/b> Climate is influenced by subtropical highs in fall, summer, and spring and [pb_glossary id=\"587\"]mid-latitude cyclones[\/pb_glossary]<\/strong>s in winter.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nClimate Characteristics (both Csa and Csb):<\/b> <\/b>Climate switches from mild, wet winters to hot, arid summers. This climate has a high percentage of sunshine. Diurnal range between maximum and minimum daily temperatures is quite large. Has some danger of [pb_glossary id=\"877\"]frost[\/pb_glossary]<\/b> during the winter season. Coastal locations can often experience low clouds and [pb_glossary id=\"889\"]fog[\/pb_glossary]<\/b>.\r\n\r\nExample:\u00a0<\/span><\/b>\r\n\r\n\"\"\r\n

MOIST CONTINENTAL MID-LATITUDE CLIMATES - \"D\" CLIMATES\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/h1>\r\nMoist continental mid-latitude climates have warm to cool summers and cold winters. The location of these climates is poleward of the C climates<\/b>. The average temperature of the warmest month is greater than 10\u00b0C (50\u00b0F), while the coldest month is less than -3\u00b0C (27\u00b0F). Winters are severe with snowstorms, strong winds, and bitter cold from [pb_glossary id=\"578\"]Continental Polar[\/pb_glossary] <\/b>or [pb_glossary id=\"874\"]Arctic Air[\/pb_glossary]<\/b> masses. This climate has three second-level types: Dw - dry winters<\/b>; Ds - dry summers<\/b>; and Df - wet all year<\/b>.\r\n\r\nDfa\/Dwa<\/b>\r\n\r\nDfa: Humid Continental Hot Summer, Wet All Year<\/i><\/b>\r\n\r\nAverage temperature of the coldest month is -3\u00b0C (27\u00b0F) or lower. Average temperature of the warmest month is greater than 10\u00b0C (50\u00b0F). Precipitation is equally spread across the year.\r\n\r\nDwa: Humid Continental Hot Summer, Dry Winter\u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/b>\r\n\r\nAverage temperature of the coldest month is -3\u00b0C (27\u00b0F) or lower. Average temperature of the warmest month is greater than 10\u00b0C (50\u00b0F). Wettest summer month has about 10 times more precipitation when compared to the driest winter month.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nLocations (both Dfa and Dwa):<\/b> Northeastern and midwestern United States, east-central Europe, northern China, and northern Korea.\r\n\r\nControlling Weather Factors (both Dfa and Dwa):<\/b> Weather influenced by [pb_glossary id=\"587\"]mid-latitude cyclones[\/pb_glossary]<\/strong> that form along the [pb_glossary id=\"590\"]polar front[\/pb_glossary]<\/b> in fall, winter, and spring. Winter weather can be clear and cold when [pb_glossary id=\"873\"]Continental Polar Air<\/strong>[\/pb_glossary] dominates. Occasional thunderstorms during summer months.\r\n\r\nClimate Characteristics (both Dfa and Dwa):<\/b> Climate has hot, often humid summers.\u00a0 <\/span>Occasional winter spells with very cold temperatures and clear skies. Immense weather variability on yearly basis and quite large annual temperature ranges. Yearly precipitation total is between 500 to 1150 mm (20 and 45 in).\r\n\r\nExample:\u00a0<\/span><\/b>\r\n\r\n\"\"\r\n\r\nDfb\/Dwb<\/b>\r\n\r\nDfb: Humid Continental Mild Summer, Wet All Year<\/i><\/b>\r\n\r\n\u00a0 <\/span>Average temperature of the coldest month is -3\u00b0C (27\u00b0F) or lower. Average temperature of the warmest month is greater than 10\u00b0C (50\u00b0F). No month has an average temperature over 22\u00b0C (72\u00b0F). Precipitation is equally distributed across the year.\r\n\r\nDwb: Humid Continental Mild Summer, Dry Winter<\/i><\/b>\r\n\r\nAverage temperature of the coldest month is -3\u00b0C (27\u00b0F) or lower. Average temperature of the warmest month is greater than 10\u00b0C (50\u00b0F). No month has an average temperature over 22\u00b0C (72\u00b0F). Wettest summer month has about 10 times more precipitation when compared to the driest winter month.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nLocations (both Dfb and Dwb):<\/b> New England and around the Great Lakes in the United States, south-central and southeastern Canada, southeastern Scandinavia, eastern Europe, west-central Asia, and northeastern China.\r\n\r\nControlling Weather Factors (both Dfb and Dwb)<\/b>:<\/b> Weather influenced by [pb_glossary id=\"587\"]mid-latitude cyclones[\/pb_glossary]<\/strong> that form along the polar front in fall, winter, and spring. Winter weather can be clear and cold when [pb_glossary id=\"862\"]Continental Polar Air[\/pb_glossary]<\/b> and [pb_glossary id=\"868\"]Continental Arctic Air<\/strong>[\/pb_glossary] masses are present. Occasional thunderstorms during summer months.\r\n\r\nClimate Characteristics (both Dfb and Dwb):<\/b> Climate has mild summers. Long winters with frequent periods of very cold temperatures and clear skies. Immense weather variability on yearly basis and quite large annual temperature ranges. Yearly precipitation total is less than Dfa<\/b> or Dwa<\/b> climates.\r\n\r\nExample:\u00a0<\/span><\/b>\r\n\r\n\"\"\r\n\r\nDfc\/Dwc\/Dfd\/Dwd<\/b>\r\n\r\nDfc: Subarctic With Cool Summer, Wet All Year<\/i><\/b>\r\n\r\n\u00a0 <\/span>Average temperature of the coldest month is -3\u00b0C (27\u00b0F) or lower. Average temperature of the warmest month is greater than 10\u00b0C (50\u00b0F). One to three months with an average temperature over 10\u00b0C (50\u00b0F). Precipitation is equally distributed across the year.\r\n\r\nDfd: Subarctic With Cold Winter, Wet All Year<\/i><\/b>\r\n\r\nAverage temperature of the coldest month is -38\u00b0C (-36\u00b0F) or lower. Average temperature of the warmest month is greater than 10\u00b0C (50\u00b0F). Precipitation is evenly distributed over the year.\r\n\r\nDwc: Subarctic With Cool Summer, Dry Winter<\/i><\/b>\r\n\r\nAverage temperature of the coldest month is -3\u00b0C (27\u00b0F) or lower. Average temperature of the warmest month is greater than 10\u00b0C (50\u00b0F). One to three months with an average temperature over 10\u00b0C (50\u00b0F). Wettest summer month has about 10 times more precipitation when compared to the driest winter month.\r\n\r\nDwd: Subarctic With Cold Winter, Dry Winter\u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/b>\r\n\r\nAverage temperature of the coldest month is -38\u00b0C (-36\u00b0F) or lower. Average temperature of the warmest month is greater than 10\u00b0C (50\u00b0F). Wettest summer month has about 10 times more precipitation when compared to the driest winter month.\r\n\r\nLocations (Dfc, Dwc, Dfd and Dwd):<\/b> <\/b>Northern North America and northern Eurasia.\r\n\r\nControlling Weather Factors (Dfc, Dwc, Dfd and Dwd):<\/b> <\/b>Weather influenced by occasional [pb_glossary id=\"587\"]mid-latitude cyclones[\/pb_glossary]<\/strong> in spring, summer, and fall. [pb_glossary id=\"862\"]Continental Polar Air[\/pb_glossary]<\/b> and [pb_glossary id=\"872\"]Continental Arctic Air[\/pb_glossary]<\/strong> masses are dominant during much of the year.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nClimate Characteristics (Dfc, Dwc, Dfd and Dwd):<\/b> Climate has brief cool summer. Winters are very long with extended periods of extremely cold temperatures and clear skies. Immense weather variability on yearly basis and quite large annual temperature ranges. [pb_glossary id=\"865\"]Permafrost[\/pb_glossary]<\/b>\u00a0is common in ground. Yearly precipitation total is between 250 to 500 mm (10 and 20 in).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nExample:\u00a0<\/span><\/b>\r\n\r\n\"\"\r\n

POLAR CLIMATES - \"E\" CLIMATES<\/b><\/h1>\r\nPolar climates have year-round cold temperatures with the warmest month less than 10\u00b0Celsius. Polar climates are found in the northern coastal areas of North America, Europe, Asia, and on the landmasses of Greenland and Antarctica. Two minor climate types exist. ET<\/b> or polar tundra<\/b> is a climate where the soil is permanently frozen to depths hundreds of meters, a condition known as [pb_glossary id=\"865\"]permafrost[\/pb_glossary]<\/b>. Vegetation is dominated by mosses, lichens, dwarf trees, and scattered woody shrubs. EF<\/b> or polar ice cap <\/b>has a surface that is permanently covered with [pb_glossary id=\"866\"]snow[\/pb_glossary]<\/b> and ice.\r\n

ET - Polar Tundra\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/h2>\r\nAverage temperature of warmest month for this climate is below 10\u00b0C (50\u00b0F) but is above 0\u00b0C (32\u00b0F). Precipitation generally is greater than potential evaporation.\r\n\r\nLocations:<\/b> <\/b>Regions in North America, Greenland, and Eurasia that border the Arctic Ocean, Antarctic Peninsula, and many polar islands.\r\n\r\nControlling Weather Factors:<\/b> Continual presence of [pb_glossary id=\"868\"]Continental Arctic Air<\/strong>[\/pb_glossary] and [pb_glossary id=\"869\"]Antarctic Air<\/strong>[\/pb_glossary] masses, [pb_glossary id=\"647\"]polar vortex[\/pb_glossary]<\/strong>, and closeness to oceans.\r\n\r\nClimate Characteristics:<\/b> This climate essentially has no summer. At least 9 months have average temperatures below freezing. Very low [pb_glossary id=\"688\"]evaporation[\/pb_glossary]<\/b> because of cold temperatures. Precipitation is normally less than 250 mm (10 in). Winds tend to be strong and cold.\r\n\r\nExample:\u00a0<\/span><\/b>\r\n\r\n\"\"\r\n

EF - Polar Ice Cap\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/h2>\r\nAverage temperature of warmest month for the EF climate is 0\u00b0C (32\u00b0F) or less. Precipitation generally is greater than potential evaporation.\r\n\r\nLocations<\/b>: <\/b>Interior Greenland, most of Antarctica, and most Arctic Islands.\r\n\r\nControlling Weather Factors<\/b>:<\/b> Continual presence of [pb_glossary id=\"868\"]Continental Arctic Air<\/strong>[\/pb_glossary] and [pb_glossary id=\"869\"]Antarctic Air<\/strong>[\/pb_glossary] masses and [pb_glossary id=\"647\"]polar vortex[\/pb_glossary]<\/strong> produce the planet\u2019s coldest temperatures. Permanent ice cover and high elevations enhance the coldness of this climate.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nClimate Characteristics:<\/b> <\/b>No summer and all average monthly temperatures are below freezing. Very low evaporation because of cold temperatures. Very small amounts of precipitation occur, mainly falling as snow.\r\n\r\nExample:\u00a0<\/span><\/b>\r\n\r\n\"\"\r\n

K\u00f6ppen Maps PDF Files<\/h1>\r\nK\u00f6ppen World Map<\/a>\r\n\r\nK\u00f6ppen Africa Map<\/a>\r\n\r\nK\u00f6ppen Asia Map<\/a>\r\n\r\nK\u00f6ppen Australia Map<\/a>\r\n\r\nKoppen Europe Map<\/a>\r\n\r\nK\u00f6ppen North America Map<\/a>\r\n\r\nK\u00f6ppen South America Map<\/a>\r\n

K\u00f6ppen Decision System PDF<\/h1>\r\nK\u00f6ppen Decision Chart<\/a>\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nThis Appendix is Licensed Under\u00a0Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0)<\/strong><\/a>.<\/span><\/em>\r\n\r\n \r\n

Updated April 4, 2021<\/span><\/p>","rendered":"

Appendix 2<\/span>: K\u00f6ppen Climate Classification System<\/h1>\n

INTRODUCTION<\/b><\/h1>\n

Climate<\/a><\/b> can be defined as the long-term trends observed in the state of the weather<\/a><\/b> (temperature<\/a><\/b>, precipitation<\/a><\/b>, humidity<\/a><\/b>, etc.) on a time scale of years to decades. Understanding these trends allows us to make predictions about what the weather may be like in the immediate future. Several systems have been developed for classifying the climates of locations found on our planet. The classification of data is a common process in all sciences. From classification, we can determine similarities and dissimilarities in the data. The classification process also helps us to identify patterns in data that are usually controlled by other factors. For the climate of locations found on the Earth, we will discover that locations with comparable climates are often influenced by similar climatic factors despite being geographically separated by great distances.<\/p>\n

The K\u00f6ppen Climate Classification system<\/a><\/b> is an empirical system that uses readily available precipitation and temperature data collected at weather stations. For the classification process, the data must be arranged as monthly totals of precipitation, monthly temperatures, annual total of precipitation, and annual temperature. Monthly temperature is calculated by first determining the daily means for all days in the month by finding the average of daily maximum and daily minimum temperatures. All the daily means are then added together and then divided by a value equal to the number of days in that particular month. Finally, monthly and annual temperature and precipitation data should be averaged over a number of consecutive years. This averaging evens out the natural variation normally found in climate data.<\/p>\n

TROPICAL MOIST CLIMATES – “A” CLIMATES<\/b><\/h1>\n

Tropical moist climates extend northward and southward from the equator to about 15 to 25\u00b0 of latitude. In these climates, all months have average temperatures greater than 18\u00b0Celsius (64\u00b0Fahrenheit). Annual precipitation is often greater than 1500 mm (59 in). Three minor K\u00f6ppen climate types exist in the A group<\/b>. These three categories of tropical moist climate are distinguished by the seasonal distribution of rainfall<\/a><\/b>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Af \u2013 Tropical Wet<\/b><\/h2>\n

Af<\/b> or tropical wet<\/b> is a tropical climate where precipitation occurs all year long. Monthly temperature variations in this climate are usually less than 3\u00b0C (37\u00b0F). Because of intense surface heating and high humidity, cumulus<\/a><\/b> and cumulonimbus<\/a><\/b> clouds (thunderstorms<\/a><\/b>) form early in the afternoons almost every day. Daily highs are about 32\u00b0C (90\u00b0F). Radiative cooling<\/a><\/b> during the evening is limited because of cloud cover and high humidity. Nighttime daily temperatures average about 22\u00b0C (72\u00b0F).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Locations:<\/b> <\/b>Amazon River Basin (South America), Congo River Basin (Africa), eastern coast of Central America, eastern coast of Brazil, the Philippines, the coast of Madagascar, eastern India, southern Bangladesh, Malaysia, and Indonesia.<\/p>\n

Controlling Weather Factors:<\/b> <\/b>High year-round input of high quantities of solar radiation<\/a><\/b> (insolation<\/b>). High and constant monthly precipitation because of the presence of thunderstorm activity associated with the Intertropical Convergence Zone<\/a><\/b>.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Climate Characteristics:<\/b> Constant high temperatures throughout the year. Average monthly temperatures are very similar – yearly range is about 2 to 3\u00b0C (36 to 37\u00b0F). Monthly precipitation is evenly distributed and annual amounts are usually greater than 1500 mm (59 in). These climates also have frequent cumulus cloud development with some of these clouds becoming air mass thunderstorms. Humidity tends to be high.<\/p>\n

Examples:\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

Aw \u2013 Tropical Wet and Dry<\/b><\/h2>\n

The tropical wet and dry<\/b> or savanna<\/b> (Aw<\/b>) has an extended dry season during winter. Precipitation during the wet season is usually less than 1000 millimeters (39 in), and only during the summer season. Average monthly temperatures for all months are greater than 18\u00b0C (64\u00b0F). More than two months have less than 60 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation. There is a distinct dry season during the low-sun period (winter) and a distinct wet season during the high-sun period (summer). These climates are generally poleward of Af<\/b> climate areas.<\/p>\n

Locations: <\/b>Northern and eastern India, central Myanmar, the Indo-Chinese Peninsula, northern Australia, region around the Congo River basin, south-central Africa, western Central America, parts of Venezuela, and parts of Brazil, the southern tip of Florida, and the Caribbean Islands.<\/p>\n

Controlling Weather Factors:<\/b> Alternating wet and dry seasons caused by the seasonal presence of the Intertropical Convergence Zone during the high-sun season and the Subtropical High Pressure Zone<\/a><\/b> during the low-sun season.<\/p>\n

Climate Characteristics: <\/b>Monthly precipitation data shows distinct high-sun wet and low-sun dry seasons. Annual rainfall averages between 750 and 1800 mm (30 and 71 in). This climate has the highest monthly temperature ranges of the A climate<\/b> category.<\/p>\n

Example:<\/b><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

Am \u2013 Tropical Monsoon<\/b><\/h2>\n

Am<\/b> is a tropical monsoon climate<\/b>. Annual rainfall is equal to or greater than Af<\/b>, but most of the precipitation falls in the 7 to 9 hottest months. Have a very pronounced wet season. During the dry season, very little rainfall occurs. Average monthly temperatures for all months is greater than 18\u00b0C (64\u00b0F). Have one or more months with less than 60 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Locations:<\/b> Coastal areas of southwestern India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Myanmar, southwestern Africa, Guyana, Surinam, French Guiana, and parts of northeast and southeast Brazil.<\/p>\n

Controlling Weather Factors:<\/b> Monsoonal<\/a><\/b> summer onshore and winter offshore air mass movement related to seasonally shifting Intertropical Convergence Zone and changing surface atmospheric pressure conditions over the landmasses and ocean areas involved.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Climate Characteristics:<\/b> Climate of this category is transitional between Af<\/b> and Aw<\/b>. Heaviest rainfall records in the world occur in this climate type (Cherripunji, India \u2013 12,000 mm (472 in)). Heavy rainfall is associated with the high-sun (summer) season. Precipitation can be greatly enhanced by orographic uplift<\/a><\/b>. Yearly precipitation totals range from between 1500 to 4000 mm. Dry season is associated with the low-sun (winter) period. Annual temperature range of monthly averages is about 2 to 6\u00b0C (36 to 43\u00b0F). Highest monthly temperature often occurs just before the start of the rainy season.<\/p>\n

Example:\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

DRY CLIMATES – “B” CLIMATES\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/h1>\n

The most obvious feature of this climate is that potential evapotranspiration<\/a><\/b> exceeds precipitation. These climates extend from 20 – 35\u00b0 North and South of the equator and in large continental regions of the mid-latitudes often surrounded by mountains. Four minor types of this climate occur:<\/p>\n

BW – Dry Arid (Desert)\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/h2>\n

BW<\/b> is a true desert climate. It covers 12% of the Earth’s land surface and is dominated by xerophytic<\/a><\/b> vegetation. The additional letters h<\/b> and k<\/b> are used generally to distinguish whether the dry arid climate is found in the subtropics or in the mid-latitudes, respectively.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

BWh \u2013 Dry Arid Low Latitudes<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n

BWh<\/b> is a dry arid climate found in low latitude deserts. The most distinguishing aspect of this climate is that precipitation is less than 50% of potential evapotranspiration. Annual average temperature is over 18\u00b0C (64\u00b0F). Daily minimum temperatures infrequently go below 0\u00b0C (32\u00b0F) during the winter season.<\/p>\n

Locations: <\/b>Northern Mexico, southwestern United States, northern Africa Saudi Arabia, Iran, western India, central and western Australia, and southern and western Africa.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

BWk \u2013 Dry Arid Mid-Latitudes<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n

BWk<\/b> is a dry arid climate<\/b> found in middle latitude deserts. Like BWh<\/b>, precipitation is less than half of potential evapotranspiration. Annual average temperature is below 18\u00b0C (64\u00b0F). Daily minimum temperatures can frequently go below 0\u00b0C (32\u00b0F) during the winter season.<\/p>\n

Locations:<\/b> From the Caspian Sea eastward to northern China, Mongolia, and parts of southern South America.<\/p>\n

Controlling Weather Factors <\/b>(both BWh <\/b>and BWk<\/b>):<\/b> <\/b>Dominance of the Subtropical High Pressure Zone during most of the year. Locations are often far inland (continentality<\/a><\/b>) and influenced by rainshadow effect<\/a><\/b>.<\/p>\n

Climate Characteristics<\/b> (both BWh <\/b>and BWk<\/b>):<\/b> <\/b>Climate is very arid and air has low relative humidity. Rainfall is very irregular and unreliable. Annual rainfall totals less than 250 mm (10 in). BWh\/k<\/b> has the highest percentage of sunshine of all climate types. Diurnal (day to night) temperature ranges are the greatest of all climate types. Daily maximum temperatures are very high. Generally, windy conditions persist during the day.<\/p>\n

Example:\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

BS – Dry Semiarid (Steppe)\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/h2>\n

This is a grassland<\/b> climate that covers 14% of the Earth’s land surface. It receives more precipitation than the BW<\/b> either from short incursions of the Intertropical Convergence Zone or from occasional mid-latitude cyclones<\/a><\/b>. Again, the additional letters h<\/b> and k<\/b> are used generally to distinguish whether the dry semiarid climate is found in the subtropics or in the mid-latitudes, respectively.<\/p>\n

BSh \u2013 Semiarid Low Latitudes<\/i><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n

BSh<\/b> is a semiarid climate found in the low latitudes. Potential evapotranspiration exceeds precipitation on average but the difference between these two measures is less than what is found in a BWh<\/b> climate. Annual average temperature is over 18\u00b0C (64\u00b0F). Annual precipitation totals greater than BWh<\/b> climate.<\/p>\n

Locations:<\/b> About 13 to 15\u00b0 North latitude in Africa, about 20\u00b0 South latitude southern Africa, border areas around Australian desert, parts of southern South America, parts of India, and areas marginal to BWh<\/b> climates of northwestern Africa, Saudi Arabia, and western India.<\/p>\n

Example:\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

BSk \u2013 Semiarid Mid-Latitudes<\/i><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n

BSk<\/b> is a semiarid climate usually found in the middle latitudes. Potential evapotranspiration exceeds precipitation on average but the difference between these two measures is less than what is found in a BWk<\/b> climate. Annual average temperature is below 18\u00b0C (64\u00b0F).<\/p>\n

Locations:<\/b> <\/b>Western plains of the United States, south-central Canada, and borders BWh<\/b> climate areas from the Caspian Sea eastward to China and Mongolia.<\/p>\n

Controlling Weather Factors (both BSh and BSk):<\/b> Weather is transitional between deserts and humid climates. Dominance of the Subtropical High Pressure Zone occurs during most of the year. Precipitation comes from brief incursions of the Intertropical Convergence Zone or from sporadic mid-latitude cyclones. Locations are often far inland (continentality) and influenced by rainshadow effect.<\/p>\n

Climate Characteristics (both BSh and BSk):<\/b> <\/b>Climate is arid and air has low relative humidity<\/a><\/b>. Rainfall is sporadic. Annual rainfall totals between 250 and 500 mm (10 and 20 in). Air temperatures for locations with this climate type vary greatly because of the effects of latitude, elevation, and continentality.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Example:\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

MOIST SUBTROPICAL MID-LATITUDE CLIMATES – “C” CLIMATES\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/h1>\n

This climate generally has warm and humid summers with mild winters. Its extent is from 30 to 50\u00b0 of latitude mainly on the eastern and western borders of most continents. During the winter, the main weather feature is the mid-latitude cyclone<\/strong><\/a>. Convective thunderstorms<\/a><\/b> provide precipitation<\/a><\/b> in the summer months. Several dominant minor types exist:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Cfa \u2013 Humid Subtropical<\/b><\/p>\n

The humid subtropical climate (Cfa<\/b>) has hot muggy summers and frequent thunderstorms<\/a><\/strong>. Winters are mild and precipitation during this season comes from mid-latitude cyclones<\/a><\/strong>. This climate type is quite common on the east coasts of continents. A good example of a region of the world with a Cfa<\/b> climate is the southeastern USA. Average temperature of the warmest month is above 22\u00b0C (72\u00b0F). Average temperature of the coldest month is below 18\u00b0C (64\u00b0F) but above -3\u00b0C (27\u00b0F). Rainfall is equally spread out through the year.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Locations:<\/b> Southeastern United States, northern Argentina, Uruguay, southern Brazil, southern Japan, and southern China.<\/p>\n

Controlling Weather Factors:<\/b> Mid-latitude cyclones<\/a><\/strong> in winter. Summer dominated by frequent thunderstorms because of the presence of Maritime Tropical Air<\/a> <\/b>masses and intense surface heating. Tropical storms<\/a> <\/b>and hurricanes<\/a><\/b> during late summer and early fall can influence coastal regions of this climate type.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Climate Characteristics:<\/b> <\/b>High humidity occurs in summer months. Summer climate is much like humid tropics. Frost can occasionally occur with the presence of Continental Polar Air<\/a> <\/b>masses in winter.\u00a0 <\/span>Precipitation varies from 650 to 2500 mm (26 and 98 in).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Example:\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

Cfb\/Cfc \u2013 Marine<\/b><\/p>\n

Cfb\/Cfc marine<\/b> climates are often found on the western coasts of continents. They have a humid climate with short dry summers. Heavy precipitation occurs during the mild winters because of the continuous presence of mid-latitude cyclones.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Cfb: Marine – Mild Winter<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n

The average temperature of all months is less than 22\u00b0C (72\u00b0F). At least four months have an average temperature greater than 10\u00b0C (50\u00b0F). The average temperature of coldest month is below 18\u00b0C (64\u00b0F) but above -3\u00b0C (27\u00b0F). Precipitation is distributed evenly throughout year.<\/p>\n

Cfc: Marine – Cool Winter\u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n

The average temperature of all months is less than 22\u00b0C (72\u00b0F). Only one to three months have an average temperature greater than 10\u00b0C (50\u00b0F). The average temperature of coldest month is below 18\u00b0C (64\u00b0F) but above -3\u00b0C (27\u00b0F). Precipitation is distributed equally throughout year.<\/p>\n

Locations:<\/b> <\/b>Coastal Oregon, Washington, west coast of Canada and southern west coast of Alaska, central and northwest Europe, southern Chile, southern coast of South Africa, southeast Australia and New Zealand.<\/p>\n

Controlling Weather Factors (both Cfb and Cfc):<\/b> Mid-latitude cyclones<\/a><\/strong> influence weather for most of the year. Warm ocean currents<\/a><\/b> keep these climates mild in winter and cool in the summer. Maritime Polar Air<\/a><\/b> masses influence these climates during the winter season.<\/p>\n

Climate Characteristics (both Cfb and Cfc):<\/b> <\/b>These climates have mild winters and cool summers with low annual temperature range. Weather activity at frontal zones<\/a><\/b> produces heavy cloud cover and high humidity during fall, winter, and spring. Long periods of rain<\/a><\/b> and drizzle<\/a><\/b> from frequent occurrence of mid-latitude cyclones. Frost can sometimes occur during the winter season.<\/p>\n

Example:\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

Cwa\/Cwb\/Cwc \u2013 Dry Winter, Wet Summer\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n

Cwa\/Cwb\/Cwc dry winter, wet summer<\/b> climates are generally found in the interiors of continents at the mid-latitudes. They have a humid climate with short dry summers. Heavy precipitation occurs during the summers because of the seasonal presence of unstable humid air masses that encourage the development of thunderstorms. These climates are quite limited in their distribution.<\/p>\n

Locations (Cwa\/Cwb\/Cwc):<\/b> Interior of central Mexico, northwestern Argentina, parts of Bolivia, Nepal, northern India, northern Bangladesh, northern Myanmar, parts of China, Angola, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and eastern South Africa.<\/p>\n

Controlling Weather Factors (Cwa\/Cwb\/Cwc):<\/b> Climate is influenced by hot and unstable humid air masses that dominate generally in late spring, summer, and early fall. Relatively dry winter season is often due to the presence dry Continental Polar Air<\/a> <\/b>masses.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Climate Characteristics (Cwa\/Cwb\/Cwc):<\/b> <\/b>High humidity occurs in summer months. Summer climate can be very similar to the humid tropics.\u00a0 <\/span>Winters tend to be dry and cool.<\/p>\n

Example:\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

Csa\/Csb \u2013 Mediterranean<\/b><\/p>\n

Mediterranean climates (Csa\/Csb)<\/b> receive rain primarily during winter season from the mid-latitude cyclone. Extreme summer aridity is caused by the sinking air of the subtropical highs and may exist for up to 5 months. Locations in North America are from Portland, Oregon to all of California.<\/p>\n

Csa: Interior Mediterranean<\/i><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n

Warm mid-latitude climate with distinctly dry hot summer caused by continental high-pressure influence. Average temperature of the coldest month is less than 18\u00b0C (64\u00b0F) but above -3\u00b0C (27\u00b0F). Wettest winter month has about 3 times more precipitation when compared to the driest summer month. Precipitation in driest summer month is less than 40 mm (1.6 in). Warmest month has average temperature above 22\u00b0C (72\u00b0F) and at least 4 months have average temperatures above 10\u00b0C (50\u00b0F).<\/p>\n

Csb: Coastal Mediterranean<\/i><\/b>\u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n

Cool mid-latitude climate with distinctly dry cool summer caused by maritime high-pressure influence. Average temperature of the coldest month is less than 18\u00b0C (64\u00b0F) but above -3\u00b0C (27\u00b0F). Wettest winter month has about 3 times more precipitation when compared to the driest summer month. Precipitation in driest summer month is less than 40 mm (1.6 in). No month in this climate type has an average temperature above 22\u00b0C (72\u00b0F) and at least 4 months have average temperatures above 10\u00b0C (50\u00b0F).<\/p>\n

Locations (both Csa and Csb):<\/b> Interior and coastal areas of California, interior and coastal areas of Chile, area around the Mediterranean Sea, Iranian highlands, southwest tip of South Africa, and southern and southwestern regions of Australia.<\/p>\n

Controlling Weather Factors (both Csa and Csb):<\/b> Climate is influenced by subtropical highs in fall, summer, and spring and mid-latitude cyclones<\/a><\/strong>s in winter.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Climate Characteristics (both Csa and Csb):<\/b> <\/b>Climate switches from mild, wet winters to hot, arid summers. This climate has a high percentage of sunshine. Diurnal range between maximum and minimum daily temperatures is quite large. Has some danger of frost<\/a><\/b> during the winter season. Coastal locations can often experience low clouds and fog<\/a><\/b>.<\/p>\n

Example:\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n

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MOIST CONTINENTAL MID-LATITUDE CLIMATES – “D” CLIMATES\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/h1>\n

Moist continental mid-latitude climates have warm to cool summers and cold winters. The location of these climates is poleward of the C climates<\/b>. The average temperature of the warmest month is greater than 10\u00b0C (50\u00b0F), while the coldest month is less than -3\u00b0C (27\u00b0F). Winters are severe with snowstorms, strong winds, and bitter cold from Continental Polar<\/a> <\/b>or Arctic Air<\/a><\/b> masses. This climate has three second-level types: Dw – dry winters<\/b>; Ds – dry summers<\/b>; and Df – wet all year<\/b>.<\/p>\n

Dfa\/Dwa<\/b><\/p>\n

Dfa: Humid Continental Hot Summer, Wet All Year<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n

Average temperature of the coldest month is -3\u00b0C (27\u00b0F) or lower. Average temperature of the warmest month is greater than 10\u00b0C (50\u00b0F). Precipitation is equally spread across the year.<\/p>\n

Dwa: Humid Continental Hot Summer, Dry Winter\u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n

Average temperature of the coldest month is -3\u00b0C (27\u00b0F) or lower. Average temperature of the warmest month is greater than 10\u00b0C (50\u00b0F). Wettest summer month has about 10 times more precipitation when compared to the driest winter month.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Locations (both Dfa and Dwa):<\/b> Northeastern and midwestern United States, east-central Europe, northern China, and northern Korea.<\/p>\n

Controlling Weather Factors (both Dfa and Dwa):<\/b> Weather influenced by mid-latitude cyclones<\/a><\/strong> that form along the polar front<\/a><\/b> in fall, winter, and spring. Winter weather can be clear and cold when Continental Polar Air<\/strong><\/a> dominates. Occasional thunderstorms during summer months.<\/p>\n

Climate Characteristics (both Dfa and Dwa):<\/b> Climate has hot, often humid summers.\u00a0 <\/span>Occasional winter spells with very cold temperatures and clear skies. Immense weather variability on yearly basis and quite large annual temperature ranges. Yearly precipitation total is between 500 to 1150 mm (20 and 45 in).<\/p>\n

Example:\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n

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Dfb\/Dwb<\/b><\/p>\n

Dfb: Humid Continental Mild Summer, Wet All Year<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n

\u00a0 <\/span>Average temperature of the coldest month is -3\u00b0C (27\u00b0F) or lower. Average temperature of the warmest month is greater than 10\u00b0C (50\u00b0F). No month has an average temperature over 22\u00b0C (72\u00b0F). Precipitation is equally distributed across the year.<\/p>\n

Dwb: Humid Continental Mild Summer, Dry Winter<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n

Average temperature of the coldest month is -3\u00b0C (27\u00b0F) or lower. Average temperature of the warmest month is greater than 10\u00b0C (50\u00b0F). No month has an average temperature over 22\u00b0C (72\u00b0F). Wettest summer month has about 10 times more precipitation when compared to the driest winter month.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Locations (both Dfb and Dwb):<\/b> New England and around the Great Lakes in the United States, south-central and southeastern Canada, southeastern Scandinavia, eastern Europe, west-central Asia, and northeastern China.<\/p>\n

Controlling Weather Factors (both Dfb and Dwb)<\/b>:<\/b> Weather influenced by mid-latitude cyclones<\/a><\/strong> that form along the polar front in fall, winter, and spring. Winter weather can be clear and cold when Continental Polar Air<\/a><\/b> and Continental Arctic Air<\/strong><\/a> masses are present. Occasional thunderstorms during summer months.<\/p>\n

Climate Characteristics (both Dfb and Dwb):<\/b> Climate has mild summers. Long winters with frequent periods of very cold temperatures and clear skies. Immense weather variability on yearly basis and quite large annual temperature ranges. Yearly precipitation total is less than Dfa<\/b> or Dwa<\/b> climates.<\/p>\n

Example:\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n

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Dfc\/Dwc\/Dfd\/Dwd<\/b><\/p>\n

Dfc: Subarctic With Cool Summer, Wet All Year<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n

\u00a0 <\/span>Average temperature of the coldest month is -3\u00b0C (27\u00b0F) or lower. Average temperature of the warmest month is greater than 10\u00b0C (50\u00b0F). One to three months with an average temperature over 10\u00b0C (50\u00b0F). Precipitation is equally distributed across the year.<\/p>\n

Dfd: Subarctic With Cold Winter, Wet All Year<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n

Average temperature of the coldest month is -38\u00b0C (-36\u00b0F) or lower. Average temperature of the warmest month is greater than 10\u00b0C (50\u00b0F). Precipitation is evenly distributed over the year.<\/p>\n

Dwc: Subarctic With Cool Summer, Dry Winter<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n

Average temperature of the coldest month is -3\u00b0C (27\u00b0F) or lower. Average temperature of the warmest month is greater than 10\u00b0C (50\u00b0F). One to three months with an average temperature over 10\u00b0C (50\u00b0F). Wettest summer month has about 10 times more precipitation when compared to the driest winter month.<\/p>\n

Dwd: Subarctic With Cold Winter, Dry Winter\u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n

Average temperature of the coldest month is -38\u00b0C (-36\u00b0F) or lower. Average temperature of the warmest month is greater than 10\u00b0C (50\u00b0F). Wettest summer month has about 10 times more precipitation when compared to the driest winter month.<\/p>\n

Locations (Dfc, Dwc, Dfd and Dwd):<\/b> <\/b>Northern North America and northern Eurasia.<\/p>\n

Controlling Weather Factors (Dfc, Dwc, Dfd and Dwd):<\/b> <\/b>Weather influenced by occasional mid-latitude cyclones<\/a><\/strong> in spring, summer, and fall. Continental Polar Air<\/a><\/b> and Continental Arctic Air<\/a><\/strong> masses are dominant during much of the year.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Climate Characteristics (Dfc, Dwc, Dfd and Dwd):<\/b> Climate has brief cool summer. Winters are very long with extended periods of extremely cold temperatures and clear skies. Immense weather variability on yearly basis and quite large annual temperature ranges. Permafrost<\/a><\/b>\u00a0is common in ground. Yearly precipitation total is between 250 to 500 mm (10 and 20 in).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Example:\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n

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POLAR CLIMATES – “E” CLIMATES<\/b><\/h1>\n

Polar climates have year-round cold temperatures with the warmest month less than 10\u00b0Celsius. Polar climates are found in the northern coastal areas of North America, Europe, Asia, and on the landmasses of Greenland and Antarctica. Two minor climate types exist. ET<\/b> or polar tundra<\/b> is a climate where the soil is permanently frozen to depths hundreds of meters, a condition known as permafrost<\/a><\/b>. Vegetation is dominated by mosses, lichens, dwarf trees, and scattered woody shrubs. EF<\/b> or polar ice cap <\/b>has a surface that is permanently covered with snow<\/a><\/b> and ice.<\/p>\n

ET – Polar Tundra\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/h2>\n

Average temperature of warmest month for this climate is below 10\u00b0C (50\u00b0F) but is above 0\u00b0C (32\u00b0F). Precipitation generally is greater than potential evaporation.<\/p>\n

Locations:<\/b> <\/b>Regions in North America, Greenland, and Eurasia that border the Arctic Ocean, Antarctic Peninsula, and many polar islands.<\/p>\n

Controlling Weather Factors:<\/b> Continual presence of Continental Arctic Air<\/strong><\/a> and Antarctic Air<\/strong><\/a> masses, polar vortex<\/a><\/strong>, and closeness to oceans.<\/p>\n

Climate Characteristics:<\/b> This climate essentially has no summer. At least 9 months have average temperatures below freezing. Very low evaporation<\/a><\/b> because of cold temperatures. Precipitation is normally less than 250 mm (10 in). Winds tend to be strong and cold.<\/p>\n

Example:\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n

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EF – Polar Ice Cap\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/h2>\n

Average temperature of warmest month for the EF climate is 0\u00b0C (32\u00b0F) or less. Precipitation generally is greater than potential evaporation.<\/p>\n

Locations<\/b>: <\/b>Interior Greenland, most of Antarctica, and most Arctic Islands.<\/p>\n

Controlling Weather Factors<\/b>:<\/b> Continual presence of Continental Arctic Air<\/strong><\/a> and Antarctic Air<\/strong><\/a> masses and polar vortex<\/a><\/strong> produce the planet\u2019s coldest temperatures. Permanent ice cover and high elevations enhance the coldness of this climate.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Climate Characteristics:<\/b> <\/b>No summer and all average monthly temperatures are below freezing. Very low evaporation because of cold temperatures. Very small amounts of precipitation occur, mainly falling as snow.<\/p>\n

Example:\u00a0<\/span><\/b><\/p>\n

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K\u00f6ppen Maps PDF Files<\/h1>\n

K\u00f6ppen World Map<\/a><\/p>\n

K\u00f6ppen Africa Map<\/a><\/p>\n

K\u00f6ppen Asia Map<\/a><\/p>\n

K\u00f6ppen Australia Map<\/a><\/p>\n

Koppen Europe Map<\/a><\/p>\n

K\u00f6ppen North America Map<\/a><\/p>\n

K\u00f6ppen South America Map<\/a><\/p>\n

K\u00f6ppen Decision System PDF<\/h1>\n

K\u00f6ppen Decision Chart<\/a><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

This Appendix is Licensed Under\u00a0Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0)<\/strong><\/a>.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Updated April 4, 2021<\/span><\/p>\n

definition<\/span>