The Difference Between Climate and Weather

Climate is the average weather of a region over a period of time. Climate is determined by precipitation and the air temperature of a region. Weather deals with the condition of a region at a specific time. Weather consists of natural occurrences in the atmosphere such as rain, thunderstorms, snow and sunshine that happen on a particular day.

Significance of Climate

Climate involves the atmospheric characteristics of a certain region on the Earth's surface. For example, the Sahara has a hot, dry climate. Conversely, the Amazon rain forest has a rainy, humid climate.

Time Frame

Climate involves studying the weather of a region over an average of days, months or years. Climate of a region is usually determined by averaging the weather over a 30-year period.

Weather Considerations

Weather deals with the atmospheric state of a region on a short-term basis. For example, the weather in Chicago on Thursday, May 21, 2009, was sunny and 82 degrees. On the same day, the weather in Boise might be partly cloudy and cool.

Features

When you observe the weather of a region over a period of days or months, you have a basis to determine the climate of that area. Climate provides a historical perspective of weather. If you're traveling to Seattle, climate indicates an umbrella might be necessary.

Importance of Climate

Climate determines the animals that live in a certain region and what plants will grow there. Climate helps farmers determine the best time to plant crops.