Wüstenklimate

Wüstenklimate, also known as arid climates, are characterized by extremely low precipitation. The defining feature is the scarcity of rainfall, often receiving less than 250 millimeters (10 inches) per year. This lack of moisture significantly impacts vegetation, leading to sparse plant life or none at all in the most extreme cases. Temperatures in desert regions can fluctuate dramatically between day and night. During the day, intense solar radiation can cause surface temperatures to soar, while at night, the absence of cloud cover allows heat to radiate quickly back into space, resulting in significantly cooler temperatures.

There are several classifications of Wüstenklimate, often distinguished by their temperature regimes. Hot deserts, such as the Sahara or the Arabian Desert, experience very high average annual temperatures. Cold deserts, like the Gobi Desert or the Great Basin Desert, have hot summers but experience cold winters with freezing temperatures. Coastal deserts, found along the western edges of continents, are influenced by cold ocean currents, which suppress evaporation and lead to even lower rainfall, though temperatures may be more moderate than in inland hot deserts. The lack of water profoundly shapes the landscapes of Wüstenklimate, leading to features like sand dunes, rocky plains, and salt flats. These environments pose unique challenges for life, requiring specialized adaptations for survival in plants and animals.