kliimat

Kliimat is the plural form of kliima in Finnish, meaning climates. It refers to the long-term atmospheric conditions of a region, including typical patterns of temperature, precipitation, humidity, wind, and pressure. Kliimat are distinguished from weather, which describes short-term conditions.

In climatology, kliimat are described using classification systems such as Köppen. These group areas by predominant temperature and precipitation regimes. Common kliima types include tropical, arid, temperate, continental, and polar. Each type has characteristic seasonal patterns and extremes.

Globally, kliimat range from hot, humid lowlands near the equator to cold, dry interiors and cool, humid coastal zones. Local variations arise from mountains, oceans, and air masses. In Finland and the Nordic region, kliimat include a maritime climate on the coast and subarctic conditions inland.

Climate data come from meteorological observations and reanalysis, summarized as long-term normals, typically 30-year averages. Climate change is altering kliimat worldwide, with warming trends, changing precipitation, and more frequent extremes.

Microclimates are localized deviations caused by urbanization, elevation, vegetation, or exposure. Understanding kliimat informs agriculture, infrastructure, and environmental policy, aiding risk assessment and adaptation planning.