Spanish Climate Diversity and Natural Landscapes

Tema 11: Factors Influencing the Climate in Spain

• Location: The position of the Iberian Peninsula on Earth.
• Maritime Influence: The effect of the surrounding seas.
• Atlantic Storms: The presence of weather systems from the Atlantic Ocean.
• Altitude: The high average altitude of the territory.
• Tropic of Cancer: Proximity to the Tropic of Cancer.

Major Climatic Zones

• Atlantic Zone: Atlantic or oceanic climate.
• Mediterranean Region: Mediterranean climate.
• Subtropical Zones: Subtropical climate.

Characteristics of Spanish Rivers

Cantabrian Side

Consists of short rivers and streams.

Atlantic Coast

Rivers in the northwest are short and deep. In the central and southern regions, they are longer with an abundant flow.

Mediterranean Side

Includes the Ebro, Spain's largest river. The remaining rivers are short with irregular flows.

Vegetation and Natural Landscapes

Major Plant Areas

• Atlantic Region: Characterized by deciduous vegetation.
• Mediterranean Region: Vegetation adapted to dry periods and evergreen trees.
• Subtropical Region: In the Canary Islands, the laurel forest stands out.

Mountain and Riparian Vegetation

There are two main types:

• Mountain Vegetation: Primarily coniferous forests.
• Riparian Vegetation: Consists of willows, poplars, ashes, and elms.

Environmental Transformation and Challenges

The transformation of nature includes the loss of vegetation and the reforestation of forests.

Environmental Problems

• Pollution and overuse of water.
• Air pollution.
• Generation of waste.
• Forest fires, desertification, and urbanization.

Protection of Natural Areas

• National parks and natural parks.
• Nature reserves, protected landscapes, and natural monuments.
• Biosphere Reserves.

Natural Environment of the Community of Madrid

Relief and Hydrography

• Mountains located to the north and northwest.
• The ramp that descends into the basin.
• The moors to the southeast, forming large plateaus.
• Valleys and plains of the Henares, Alberche, and Jarama rivers.

Climate and Vegetation

The climate is continental Mediterranean on the plains and lowlands, featuring mild temperatures in winter and high temperatures in summer.

Natural vegetation includes:

• The riparian forest.
• The Mediterranean forest.

Landscape Transformation in Madrid

Two main types exist:

• Dry land and irrigated orchards.
• The pastures.