The climate of the Midwestern United States is characterized by four distinct seasons. Winters are generally cold, with average temperatures ranging from 0 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit. Snowfall is common, with some areas receiving over 100 inches of snow per year. Summers are typically hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 70 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Precipitation is plentiful, with most areas receiving between 30 and 50 inches of rain per year. Spring and fall are generally mild, with average temperatures ranging from 40 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
Factors Influencing Climate
The climate of the Midwest is influenced by a number of factors, including latitude, altitude, and distance from large bodies of water. The region's location in the center of the North American continent means that it is subject to both continental and maritime air masses. Continental air masses originate over the land, while maritime air masses originate over the ocean. When continental air masses dominate, the weather is typically cold and dry. When maritime air masses dominate, the weather is typically warm and humid.
The Midwest's altitude also plays a role in its climate. The higher the altitude, the cooler the temperature. This is because the air at higher altitudes is less dense, and therefore cannot hold as much heat. As a result, areas in the Midwest that are located at higher elevations, such as the Ozark Plateau, tend to be cooler than areas that are located at lower elevations, such as the Mississippi River Valley.
Finally, the Midwest's distance from large bodies of water also affects its climate. Areas that are located near the Great Lakes or the Gulf of Mexico tend to have milder climates than areas that are located further inland. This is because the water acts as a heat sink, absorbing and releasing heat more slowly than land. As a result, areas near large bodies of water tend to have warmer winters and cooler summers than areas that are further inland.
Climate Change
The climate of the Midwest is changing as a result of climate change. The average temperature in the Midwest has increased by about 2 degrees Fahrenheit since the late 19th century. This warming trend is expected to continue, with average temperatures projected to increase by another 2 to 4 degrees Fahrenheit by the end of the 21st century.
Climate change is also expected to lead to more extreme weather events, such as heat waves, droughts, and floods. These events can cause significant damage to infrastructure, agriculture, and ecosystems.
Conclusion
The climate of the Midwestern United States is characterized by four distinct seasons and a variety of weather patterns. The region's climate is influenced by a number of factors, including latitude, altitude, distance from large bodies of water, and climate change.