Tropical Wet Climate (Af)
The Tropical Wet Climate (Af) is a key climatic classification under Koeppen's system, designed for regions located near the Equator, specifically between the Tropic of Cancer and Tropic of Capricorn. This climatic zone is noted for its hot and humid conditions, with average temperatures of at least 20°C throughout the year, and an annual range of temperature that is negligible.
Key Characteristics
- Temperature: Daily maximum temperatures hover around 30°C while minima do not drop below 20°C.
- Rainfall: This climate type experiences significant, often daily, rainfall throughout the year, predominantly in the form of intense afternoon thunderstorms.
- Vegetation: The continuous warmth and moisture promote the growth of tropical evergreen forests, distinguished by dense canopy coverage and high biodiversity. Major areas exhibiting this climate include the Amazon Basin in South America, western Africa, and parts of the East Indies.
The importance of understanding the Tropical Wet Climate lies in its ecological impact and contributions to global biodiversity, illustrating the direct relation between climate conditions and terrestrial ecosystems.