Midlatitudes

Midlatitudes are the broad band of Earth’s latitude lying between the tropical regions near the equator and the polar regions near the poles. In most definitions the midlatitudinal zone extends roughly from 23.5° to 66.5° latitude in both hemispheres, though some schemes use a narrower range (roughly 30° to 60°). The belt encompasses much of Europe, North America, northern Asia, and parts of South America, Africa, and Oceania.

The midlatitudes are characterized by significant seasonal variation and a diversity of climate regimes. They host temperate climates—oceanic, Mediterranean, humid subtropical, and humid continental—along with drier steppe regions in some inland areas. Weather is strongly influenced by westerly winds and the jet stream, producing frequent cyclone and anticyclone activity and a marked contrast between warm summers and cool or cold winters. Precipitation tends to be higher on western sides of continents due to maritime influence and lower in interior regions.

Topography plays a major role in local climate, with mountain ranges and plateaus creating rain shadows and distinct ecological zones. The ecosystems range from temperate forests to grasslands and semi-arid steppes, reflecting latitude, altitude, and proximity to oceans.

Human presence in the midlatitudes is extensive, with high population densities and diverse economic systems. Agriculture often benefits from moderate growing seasons and access to rainfall or irrigation; industry and services are concentrated in urban areas. Climate change is affecting the midlatitudes through shifting temperature and precipitation patterns and increased frequency of extreme weather events.