Mediterranean Climate

The Mediterranean climate is a type of climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. This climate is typically found in regions located along the Mediterranean Sea, as well as in other areas with similar latitude and geography, such as parts of California, central Chile, southwestern Australia, and the Cape Town area of South Africa.

The defining features of a Mediterranean climate include seasonal variations in precipitation, with the majority occurring during the cooler months, and little to no rainfall during the summer months. Average annual temperatures can vary, but summer temperatures often exceed 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures generally range from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F).

Vegetation in Mediterranean climates is often characterized by drought-resistant plants, such as shrubs and small trees, commonly found in scrublands known as maquis or chaparral. The climate supports agriculture, particularly the cultivation of olives, grapes, and citrus fruits, which thrive in the warm, sunny conditions.