Climatic Classification (Köppen)

The Köppen Climate Classification is a widely used system that categorizes the world's climates based on temperature, precipitation, and seasonality. This system consists of five main groups, each with various subcategories that provide a detailed classification of different climate types around the globe.

The five main groups in the Köppen Climate Classification are as follows:

A (Tropical Climate): This climate type is characterized by high temperatures throughout the year with significant precipitation. The subtypes within this category include:

• Tropical rainforest (Af)
• Tropical monsoon (Am)
• Tropical savanna (Aw)

B (Dry Climate): Dry climates are marked by low precipitation. The subtypes are further divided based on temperature into:

• Arid (BW) and
• Semi-arid (BS), which include hot and cold deserts and steppes.

C (Temperate Climate): Temperate climates feature moderate temperatures with distinct seasons. The subtypes within this category include:

• Mediterranean (Csa, Csb)
• Humid subtropical (Cfa, Cwa)
• Oceanic (Cfb, Cfc)

D (Continental Climate): Continental climates exhibit large temperature variations between summer and winter. The subtypes include:

• Humid continental (Dfa, Dfb, Dwa, Dwb)
• Subarctic (Dfc, Dfd, Dwc, Dwd)

E (Polar Climate): Polar climates are defined by extremely cold temperatures. The subtypes are:

• Tundra (ET)
• Ice cap (EF)

The significance of the Köppen Climate Classification lies in its ability to help understand climate-related patterns in vegetation, wildlife, and human activities.

By categorizing climates, this system aids in environmental and ecological research, agricultural planning, and understanding the impacts of climate change.