Geographical and Climatic Factors Shaping Spain's Climate

Geographical Factors: The Geographical Position

Spain is situated between two continents, Eurasia and Africa. Located between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, it is influenced by both. Receiving both maritime and continental influences, Spain presents specific features characteristic of such climatic influences.

The Spanish territory experiences a significant duration of daylight throughout the year. Positioned on the western facade of the European continent, very close to the subtropical zone, Spain receives influences from the Azores anticyclone and warm air masses. Furthermore, Atlantic storms pass through Spain toward Europe, and the region serves as a gateway for hot winds from Africa, the Azores anticyclone, and cold winds from northern and eastern Europe.

Altitude and the Presence of Relief

Spain features a high average altitude, which significantly affects its average annual temperature. Central cities often experience lower temperatures compared to other regions in northern and central Spain.

The vertical thermal gradient measures temperature variation depending on altitude: for every 100 meters of ascent, the temperature drops by 0.65 degrees.

Mountain systems parallel to the coast act as a barrier to storms. Storms crossing these mountain ranges reach the Mediterranean Sea worn out, failing to produce significant rainfall, which leads to arid climates.

• Wetter areas of Spain: These are areas located upwind, where storms dump their moisture before descending as dry air. This phenomenon is known as the foehn effect.
• Barriers to cold air: There are natural barriers to the south of cold air masses, specifically the Pyrenees, the Central System, the Iberian System, and the Baetic System.

Influence of Bodies of Water

The proximity to the sea ensures that coastal areas are influenced by the temperature and humidity of air masses. On the northern peninsular coast, the warm Gulf Stream helps soften temperatures. In the Mediterranean Sea, temperatures are warmer, yet remain mild. High water temperatures in the Mediterranean favor the onset of the cold drop.

Conversely, the distance from the sea causes the hinterland to experience a continental climate, resulting in lower temperatures compared to the coast. These inland areas also exhibit a smaller amount of precipitation with respect to coastal regions.