THE COOL TEMPERATE WESTERN MARGIN (BRITISH TYPE) CLIMATE

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THE COOL TEMPERATE WESTERN MARGIN (BRITISH TYPE) CLIMATE

 
 

 

Areas from Britain, the climatic belt stretches far inland into the lowlands of North-West Europe including Northern West France, Belgium, Netherlands, Denmark, Western Norway, and North America-Coastlands of British Columbia (as the Rockies Prevent the onshore westerlies from penetrating far inland). In Southern Hemisphere-Southern Chile, Tasmania and Most parts of the Newzeland. These areas are under the permanent influence of westerlies. These are regions of much cyclonic activity. 

 

1. Climate

 

Temperature- 40F and 60F: Summers are never very warm. The climate is ideal for maximum comfort and mental alertness. Winters are mild, with no station record below freezing points in western Europe this is because of the warming effect of the Warm North Atlantic Drift and The Prevalence of South Westerly.  Night frost does occur and snow falls in winter. The oceanic influences not only keep the winters very mild but also the summers cool. 

Precipitation: Adequate rainfall throughout the year with a tendency towards a slight winter or autumn from cyclonic sources. Since rain-bearing winds come from the west the western margins have the heaviest rainfall. The amount decreases eastwards.

The Seasons: Four distinct seasons in the British climate-

  1. Light snowfall can be expected in the winter months
  2. Winter is the season of cloudy skies, foggy and misty mornings
  3. Spring is the driest most refreshing seasons
  4. Long sunny summers.

 

2. Natural Vegetation 

 

Deciduous forest. Trees shed leaves in the cold season.  Common species include oak, elm, ash, birch, beech, poplar and hornbeam. Deciduous trees occur in pure stand and have greater lumbering value. The open nature of the forest with sparse undergrowth is highly useful in logging operations as easy penetration means much cost can be saved in the movement of the logs.

 

3. Economic Development 

 

  • Market Gardening: In north-western Europe intensive market gardening is carried out eg The Values of Yourt and Evesham in the UK.
  • Mixed Farming: Throughout  Britain and North Western Europe, farmers practice both arable farming (cultivation of crops on ploughed land) and pastoral farming (keeping animals on grass meadows).  Crops may be raised for cash sales or as fodder for cattle or sheep.  The farmers also plant a few fruit trees, rear pigs keep poultry mainly for eggs and even have bees for honey. Among cereals, wheat is extensively grown almost entirely for home consumption because of the dense population. The next important crop is barley. the better quality barley is sold to the breweries for beer making or whisky distilling. Malting Barley is grown in South Eastern Britain. The temperate western margin climate is ideal for intensive dairying. Besides dairying, some cattle are kept as beef cattle. 
  • Sheep Rearing: Britain is the home of the best-known sheep Leicesters, Lincolns and Southdowns which are dual-purpose noted for wool as well as mutton Major sheep areas-Pennines, Scottish Highlands Southern Uplands Welsh Mountains Sarplands of South Eastern England.
  • Other agricultural activities: Potatoes play a pivotal role in the home economy of cool temperate areas, serving as one of the most significant food crops. This versatile crop is known for its high starch production and adaptability to various climatic and soil conditions. With a global impact, Europe stands as the primary producer of the annual potato crop. Among European nations, Poland, Germany, France, and the United Kingdom emerged as the top four contributors to the world's potato production.
  • Deciduous Forests in Cool Temperate Areas: The natural vegetation in cool temperate areas is characterized by deciduous forests. These forests undergo a unique adaptation to cold weather, shedding their leaves during winter to protect themselves from frosts and snow. The deciduous hardwoods prevalent in this climate, including oak, elm, ash, birch, beech, poplar, and horn-beam, hold high timber value, making them valuable from both commercial and industrial perspectives. Unlike equatorial forests, deciduous trees are prized for their timber, fuel, and industrial uses.
  • Life and Economy in Cool Temperate Areas: The cool temperate region stands apart with its remarkable industrial development. Predominant production includes machinery, chemicals, textiles, and various manufactured goods. Fishing plays a crucial role in the economies of regions like Britain, Norway, and British Columbia. The exceptional industrial prowess is a hallmark of the region's economic landscape.
 
 
 

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