What Is The Climate Of Washington?
Washington is a state located in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. It is known for its diverse climate, ranging from temperate rainforest in the west to arid desert in the east. The climate of Washington is generally mild, though winters can be cold in the mountains and summers can be hot in the lowlands.
Average Temperature
The average temperature in Washington varies greatly depending on the region. In general, temperatures in the western part of the state tend to be milder due to the influence of the Pacific Ocean, while temperatures in the eastern part of the state tend to be cooler due to the influence of the Rocky Mountains. The average temperature in the state is 45°F (7°C).
Precipitation
Washington receives an average of 37 inches (93 centimeters) of precipitation annually. Most of the precipitation falls in the winter and spring months, with the driest months being July and August.
Snowfall
Snowfall in Washington varies greatly depending on the region. In the western part of the state, snowfall is generally light, while in the eastern part of the state, snowfall can be heavy. In the mountains, snowfall can be very heavy, with an average of about 300 inches (7.6 meters) per year.
Climate Zones
Washington can be divided into four distinct climate zones. The first is the Pacific Marine zone, which is found in the western part of the state and is characterized by mild temperatures and high precipitation levels. The second is the Continental zone, which is found in the eastern part of the state and is characterized by colder temperatures and lower precipitation levels. The third is the Mountain zone, which is found in the Cascade Range and is characterized by colder temperatures and higher precipitation levels. The fourth is the Interior zone, which is found in the interior of the state and is characterized by hot temperatures and low precipitation levels.
Conclusion
Washington is a state with a diverse climate, ranging from temperate rainforest in the west to arid desert in the east. The average temperature in the state is 45°F (7°C) and the average annual precipitation is 37 inches (93 centimeters). Snowfall in the state varies greatly, with the western part of the state receiving light snowfall and the eastern part receiving heavy snowfall. Washington can also be divided into four distinct climate zones, each with its own unique characteristics.
Kyle Whyte is a notable scholar and professor at the University of Michigan, holding positions such as the George Willis Pack Professor in the School for Environment and Sustainability and Professor of Philosophy. Specializing in environmental justice, his work critically examines climate policy and Indigenous peoples’ ethics, emphasizing the nexus between cooperative scientific endeavors and Indigenous justice. As an enrolled Citizen Potawatomi Nation member, he brings a vital perspective to his roles as a U.S. Science Envoy and member of the White House Environmental Justice Advisory Council. His influential research is supported by various prestigious organizations including the National Science Foundation, and disseminated through publications in high-impact journals. Kyle actively contributes to global Indigenous research methodologies and education, with affiliations to numerous institutes and societies dedicated to traditional knowledge and sustainability. Recognized for his academic and community engagement, Kyle has earned multiple awards and served in various visiting professorships. His efforts extend to leadership positions on boards and committees focused on environmental justice nationwide.