|
|
Having a latitudinal and longitudinal location of 51° N and 9° E respectively, Germany has a moderate climatic temperature intercepted by cold and heat waves. because of its nearness to the Arctic Circle. In the inland plains the climate is continental. This region in Germany is prone to seasonal variations in summer and in winter temperatures. On the other hand, the coastal regions enjoy a maritime climate with the warm western winds carrying the humidity of the North Sea. Hence, the summers are considerably warm and humid and the winters are cloudy and cooler.
The maritime climate of Germany is the result of the movement and the counter-movement of the Icelandic low-pressure and the Azores high-pressure. The climatic temperature of the lowlands during the winters in Germany are highly influenced by the combined actions of both these pressure Icelandic winds coming from the north are warmed up by the Gulf Stream resulting in the mid winter temperatures in the country's North Sea coast to be more than an average of 1.6° C.
The Alpine regions and the Central highlands of Germany have a cooler mountainous climate, which is characterized by cold winters because of the altitude. The winters are extremely cold in these regions.
The continental climate of Germany is significantly marked by high pressure, which bring about pleasant and clear winters. These pressures are locally called as the Siberian highs. This climatic variation is expected to remain for a week or so. The climatic temperature of Germany is uniform throughout the year except for the interceptions of these low and high pressures or the variations caused by the shelter and elevation. The temperature throughout the year is 9° C.
The coldest month of the year is January, when the average temperature can drop to as low as 1.6°C in the north and -2°C in the south. July, on the other hand is the warmest month. This month finds a complete reversal in the climate of Germany in comparison to the summer months. It becomes cooler in the north and the south harbors a comparatively warm climate.
The climate of Germany also influences the vegetation and livestock in the various parts of the country.
