The weather
is a system of cycles and forces within the atmosphere that envelopes
the Earth. The term weather is used to describe day-to-day variations
in our atmosphere. The source of all these changes is the Sun. As the
Earth spins on its axis at an angle of about 23.5 degrees and orbits the
Sun, it is heated in a highly irregular manner. Equatorial areas receive
more intense radiation than those near the poles, and, because of different
heat absorption characteristics, landmasses heat up moe than do the oceans.
The atmosphere constantly works toward equilibrium, attempting to level
temperature irregularities by carrying warm air from the equator toward
the poles and cold air toward the equator. However, as this happens, the
air is redirected by the Earth's rotation, slowed down by friction with
the land and sea, and held within the confines of the atmosphere by gravity.
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Climate in British Columbia BC is varied due to its diverse topography.
The coastal region has a very mild winter climate with lots of rainfall.
November and February tend to be the wettest months, while May and September
are probably the best times to visit the coast. Vancouver enjoys a maritime
climate, with mild winters and warm summers. Although winters can be notoriously
rainy, there are often long periods of continuous sunshine in the summertime,
when visitors come to explore the region's natural beauty. Snowfall is
rare in the city, but is more than adequate for the ski slopes on the
Coast Mountains to the north. The interior to the east of the Coast Mountains
has a much drier climate with warm summers and cool winters. The Rockies
enjoy a warm to hot summer from May to September, with heavy snowfalls
during winter. The northern part of the province has generally much colder
winters and cooler summers than the rest of BC.
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