Climate & Vegetation: North Africa, Southwest Asia and Central Asia

What is the main climate of North Africa, Southwest Asia, and Central Asia?

Mostly dry with deserts and steppe lands.

Why is the region considered arid?

It gets very little rainfall, often under 10 inches a year.

Where is the Sahara Desert located and how big is it?

It’s in North Africa and spans 3.5 million square miles.

How much of the Sahara Desert is covered in sand?

Only about 10%, most of it is rocks and mountains.

What is the weather like in the northern Sahara?

It has freezing winters.

What is the weather like in the southern Sahara?

It has long, hot summers.

Who lives in desert regions like the Sahara?

Nomads with herds of sheep, goats, and camels.

Where is the steppe climate found in this region?

North and south of the Sahara, from Turkey to Kazakhstan.

How much rain does the steppe region get?

Less than 14 inches per year.

What grows in the steppe climate?

Short grasses for grazing animals like sheep and goats.

What is the climate like near the Mediterranean Sea?

Cool, rainy winters and hot, dry summers.

Where does most of the rain fall in this region?

In coastal areas and mountains.

How much rain does the Atlas Mountains region get?

Up to 30 inches per year.

How much rain does the Elburz Mountains region get?

Up to 60 inches per year.

What crops can grow without irrigation in rainy areas?

Barley, oats, and wheat.

Why are deserts not always hot and sandy?

Many have rocky ground and can get very cold at night.