Temperate, Cold, and Mediterranean Landscapes: Climate and Vegetation

Climate and Landscapes: An Introduction

This document explores various climate zones and their associated landscapes.

1. Climate Seasons

• Winter: Areas influenced by polar air masses.
• Summer: Areas affected by hot air masses.
• Intermediate Seasons: Spring and Autumn.

2. Temperate Zone Landscapes

These include:

• Oceanic or Atlantic
• Mediterranean
• Continental

3. Cold Weather Landscapes

Found in polar regions and high mountains. Shrubs and higher vegetation grow in these areas. Polar regions are sparsely populated.

4. Landscape Types

Oceanic Landscape

Characteristic of the west coast of Europe. The oceanic climate features mild winter and summer temperatures. Rainfall is abundant throughout the year. Forests and meadows thrive in this environment.

Mediterranean Landscape

Found on the coasts and islands of Europe. Summers are hot and dry, while winters have abundant rainfall. Vegetation includes evergreen forests. Rainfall is abundant in spring and autumn.

Continental Landscape

Located in the hinterland of Europe. Summers are hot, and winters are cold. Precipitation falls mainly in summer. Taiga forests of spruce and birch grow in the north, while steppes are found in the south. Deciduous forests range along the mountain slopes.

5. Atlantic Climate and Vegetation

Beautiful landscapes of the north and northwest are under the influence of the Atlantic. Average temperatures are 20°C in summer and 10°C in winter. Rainfall is frequent but decreases in summer. Deciduous forests grow here. Brown leaf vegetation supports livestock.

6. Mediterranean Climate

Characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Rainfall is maximum in autumn and can result in torrential rain. Steppe extends in drier areas.

7. Climate and Vegetation in Spain

The hinterland of the Iberian Peninsula has a Mediterranean climate with continental influence, featuring dry summers and cold winters. Rainfall reaches its minimum in the interior of Spain during summer. Vegetation includes oaks and sparse vegetation.

8. Population in Spain's Interior

Traditional rural housing is concentrated in small and medium-sized villages, as dry crops do not require the constant presence of farmers. However, there are also farmhouses around Andalusia.

9. High Mountain Climate and Vegetation

Features low temperatures, cool and short summers, and abundant precipitation. Crops and forests grow at the foot of the mountains, followed by Mediterranean and deciduous forests. Landa develops from 1600m, and meadows are found above.

10. Climate and Vegetation of the Canary Islands

The Canary Islands have a subtropical arid climate with high temperatures throughout the year. Rainfall is scarce, and vegetation is very irregular but has a wide range of species.

11. Population of the Canary Islands

The coastline of the Canary Islands is densely populated. Tourism has significantly influenced the growth of many cities and towns. Rural habitats include villages with whitewashed houses.