Climate Zones

Desert climates are defined by very low rainfall (less than 250 mm per year). Hot deserts like the Sahara have extreme heat by day and cold nights, while cold deserts like the Gobi Experience freezing winters. Both are shaped by their extreme aridity.

The monsoon is a seasonal reversal of winds that brings intense rainfall to South and South-East Asia during summer months. Hundreds of millions of people depend on monsoon rains for agriculture, water supply, and daily life.

Polar climates are found at and around the North and South Poles. They are characterised by extremely cold temperatures throughout the year, very low precipitation, and months of continuous daylight or darkness.

Temperate climates lie between the tropics and the polar regions and have four distinct seasons with moderate temperatures and rainfall throughout the year. Much of Europe, North America, and New Zealand has a temperate climate.

The tropical climate zone lies near the equator and is characterised by high temperatures throughout the year and abundant rainfall. It supports the world's most biodiverse ecosystems, including tropical rainforests.