Have you noticed it's hot in summer and cold in winter? Do you know the difference between the weather forecast we hear every day and the climate that characterizes a whole region? In this lesson, we'll understand this important difference.
What's the Difference Between Weather and Climate?
Weather is the state of the atmosphere in a specific place over a short time, like today or this week, including temperature, wind, rain, and clouds. The weather might be sunny today and rainy tomorrow, because weather changes quickly from day to day.
Climate, on the other hand, is the average weather pattern in a certain region over many years, which is why we say the desert's climate is generally hot and dry, and polar regions have a cold climate year-round. Climate doesn't change in a single day — it stays relatively stable over very long periods.
There are several main climate types around the world: the hot, humid tropical climate near the equator; the hot, dry desert climate found in most Arab countries; the temperate climate with four distinct seasons; and the very cold polar climate at the poles. Climate types are shaped by several factors, like distance from the equator, elevation above sea level, and closeness to seas and oceans.
Understanding weather and climate helps us choose the right clothes and plan daily activities, and it helps farmers know the best time to plant and harvest.
- Weather: the temporary state of the atmosphere over a short time
- Climate: the average weather pattern over many years
- Climate types include tropical, desert, temperate, and polar
- Understanding weather and climate helps with daily and farming plans
