Equatorial climates Flashcards
Where are equatorial climates found?
Between the Equator and 5° north and south of the Equator
What are the characteristics of an equatorial climate?
Hot temperatures all year round (26-32°C).
High rainfall all year round (1600-3600 mm a year), fairly even distribution throughout the year
Winds are mostly warm trade winds, and vary in strength over the year
Why are equatorial climates like this?
Sun is overhead all year round
ITCZ influence weather all year round, bringing rain every day
Strong convection (heating of surface air) causes regular afternoon rains
How does strong convection cause regular rain?
Sun warms the ground, which warms the air above it and evaporates surface water. The warm, wet air rises, cools again, and the water vapour condenses into rain