Mediterranean climate

Click a letter for the index

Or search the encyclopaedia:

 

 

Go

 

Climate characterized by hot, dry summers and warm, wet winters. Mediterranean zones are situated in either hemisphere on the western side of continents, between latitudes of 30° and 60°.

During the winter, rain is brought by the westerlies, which blow from the sea. In summer, Mediterranean climate areas are under the influence of the trade winds which bring arid conditions with a longer dry season towards the desert margins. Most areas are backed by coastal mountains and so the combined effects of orographic rainfall and precipitation on the weather front give high seasonal rainfall totals. The Mediterranean Sea region is noted for its local winds. The sirocco and khamsin are two of the hot, dry winds that blow from the Sahara, and can raise temperatures to over 40°C/104°F.

The emblem was added to distinguish the flag from that of Italy. The design is based on the French tricolour. The colours are those of the Mexican liberation army. Effective date: 23 November 1968. >>