Climate type with low temperature range and year-round precipitation — UPSC Prelims PYQ 2024

Consider the following description

1. Annual and daily range of temperatures is low.
2. Precipitation occurs throughout the year.
3. Precipitation varies between 50cm – 250cm.

What is this type of climate?

1. Equatorial climate
2. China type climate
3. Humid subtropical climate
4. Marine West coast climate

Explanation

Option (d) is correct

• Warm temperate (mid-latitude) climates extend from 30° to 50° of latitude mainly on the eastern and western margins of continents. These climates generally have warm summers with mild winters. They are grouped into four types: (i) Humid subtropical, i.e. dry in winter and hot in summer (Cwa); (ii) Mediterranean (Cs); (iii) Humid subtropical, i.e. no dry season and mild winter (Cfa); (iv) Marine west coast climate (Cfb).
• Marine west coast climate is located poleward from the Mediterranean climate on the west coast of the continents.
• The main areas are:
  • Northwestern Europe,
  • west coast of North America,
  • north of California,
  • southern Chile,
  • southeastern Australia and
  • New Zealand.

• Due to marine influence, the temperature is moderate, and in winter, it is warmer than for its latitude.
• The mean temperature in summer months ranges from 15° to 20°C and in winter 4°-10°C.
• The annual and daily ranges of temperature are small.
• Precipitation occurs throughout the year.
• Precipitation varies greatly from 50 to 250cm.

Answer: (d) Marine West Coast climate: Difficulty Level: Medium