Explain why Spain has such a varied climate.
Spain has a varied climate due to a combination of geographical factors, such as its diverse topography, location, and the influence of both the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea.
1. Topography: Spain is one of the most mountainous countries in Europe, with several mountain ranges running across the country. The Pyrenees, located in the northeast, act as a natural barrier to the cold air masses coming from the north. The Central System, Sierra Nevada, and Cordillera Cantabrica are other significant mountain ranges that affect the climate. These mountains create distinct weather patterns, shielding certain regions from prevailing winds, and giving rise to temperature variations.
2. Latitude and Proximity to Water Bodies: Spain is positioned between latitudes 36°N and 43°N, which places it at a transitional zone between the subtropical southern regions and temperate northern regions. The country is also surrounded by water bodies on three sides – the Atlantic Ocean to the west and northwest, the Mediterranean Sea to the east, and the Strait of Gibraltar to the south. These waters significantly influence Spain's climate, moderating temperature extremes and contributing to the coastal and maritime influence on weather patterns.
3. Atlantic Influence: The Atlantic Ocean contributes to the temperate and oceanic climate experienced in the northern regions of Spain, such as Galicia, Asturias, and the Basque Country. The ocean currents bring milder temperatures, higher humidity, and more rainfall to these areas, resulting in a mild and damp climate.
4. Mediterranean Influence: The Mediterranean Sea plays a significant role in the climate experienced in most of Spain. Along the eastern and southeastern coasts, including Catalonia, Valencia, and Andalusia, a Mediterranean climate prevails. It is characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The sea acts as a heat reservoir, keeping the coastal areas cooler during summer and warmer during winter.
5. Continental Interior: Spain's central and inland areas, including the Meseta Central, experience a more extreme continental climate due to their distance from the moderating influence of the oceans. These regions have hot summers and cold winters, with temperature variations between day and night and low rainfall.
The combination of these geographical factors creates a diverse range of climates in Spain, from the wet and mild weather in the north, to the arid and hot conditions in the south, and the continental climate in the central regions.