Climate in the United States

What does “climate” describe?

• The weather on a single day

• Aspects of weather measured over a long period of time

• Only rainfall and storms

• Only temperature changes

Which factors can affect the climate of an area?

• Geography and latitude

• The kinds of animals that live there

• How many people live in a city

• The shape of buildings

Why do parts of the Southwest region have a hot and dry climate?

• The Gulf of Mexico brings warm winds there.

• The Rocky Mountains block cool, humid air from the Pacific Ocean.

• The area is close to the Atlantic Ocean.

• The Great Lakes bring snow and rain.

What makes the climate in the Southeast hot and humid?

• Cold winds from Canada

• Elevation from the Rocky Mountains

• Warm winds and moist air from the Gulf of Mexico

• Cool breezes from the Atlantic Ocean

Why are areas around the Rocky Mountains colder?

• They are farther north.

• They are closer to the equator.

• They receive more sunlight.

• They have more vegetation.

Which regions often have a cold and wet climate?

• Southwest and Southeast

• Northeast, Midwest, and West

• Southeast and Great Plains

• Southwest and Northwest Coast

What effect do the Great Lakes and the Atlantic Ocean have on the Northeast climate?

• They make it hot and dry.

• They bring cooler temperatures and moisture.

• They block winds from the Pacific Ocean.

• They cause deserts to form.

Which statement best explains how latitude affects climate?

• Areas closer to the equator are usually warmer.

• Areas near oceans are always cold.

• Areas far from mountains are always dry.

• Cities near rivers are always humid.