What characterizes a Mediterranean climate?

A Mediterranean climate is characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. This climate type typically experiences dry conditions during the summer months, with temperatures that can become quite high, while winters are cooler and feature a significant amount of rainfall. This unique weather pattern is influenced by geographical factors, including latitude and coastal proximity.

The bi-modal precipitation pattern, with the majority of rainfall occurring in winter and very little in summer, allows for the development of distinct vegetation typical of Mediterranean regions, such as scrub types and drought-resistant plants. Areas with this climate are often found around the Mediterranean Sea, as well as in parts of California, Australia, and South Africa.

The other options describe climate patterns that do not fit the Mediterranean classification. Cold winters and hot summers are characteristic of a continental climate, while consistent rainfall throughout the year aligns more closely with oceanic climates. Extreme weather variations between seasons are indicative of a more continental climate rather than the stable, predictable patterns of a Mediterranean climate.