Climate

Climate is the set of long-term, average meteorological conditions that occur over several decades or longer. Unlike weather, which fluctuates greatly in the short term and is difficult to predict, climate is relatively stable, and many organisms have adapted to its predictable rhythms. As a result, climate is the driving force behind many ecological processes. For example, average temperature and moisture factor into the frequency and severity of wildfires, which species can live in an area, and the rate at which organisms grow. Climate also strongly influences the intensity and timing of peak stream flows, which are important factors driving both agricultural systems and natural ecosystems in the Greater Yellowstone Area.
 
Updated 7/10/08