The Temperate Zone lies between the tropics and the polar circles. Average yearly temperatures in these regions are not extreme, not burning hot nor freezing cold. Temperate means moderate.
The temperate climates can be divided into warm temperate climates and cool temperate climates.
The temperate climates can be divided into warm temperate climates and cool temperate climates.
- The warm temperate climates include the Mediterranean climate. Summers are hot and dry and winters are mild and wet.
- Cool temperate climates are climates such as that found in the British Isles, northern Europe and New Zealand. Summers are warm and winters can be cold, with snow and freezing temperatures for short periods. Rain falls throughout the year, but there is more rainfall in winter than in summer.