The Temperate Zone

There are two temperate zones in the world. One lies between the Tropic of Cancer and the Arctic Circle. The other lies between the Tropic of Capricorn and the Antarctic Circle. The temperate zones are cooler than the tropics.

Places in the temperate zones experience the four seasons; spring, summer, autumn and winter. Summer is the hottest part of the year. At this time of the year the sun is highest in the sky.

Summer is followed by autumn which is also called the fall. During autumn, it gets cooler and many trees drop their leaves.

Autumn is followed by winter. This is the time of the year when the sun is lowest in the sky. Winter is the coldest time of the year. Places in the temperate zones experience snow during winter. Many animals find a safe place and sleep through the winter. This is called hibernation.

After winter comes spring. During spring the temperature rises. As it gets warmer, plants start to grow. Trees that dropped their leaves during autumn regrow their leaves. Animals come out of hibernation.

Living in temperate zones

In the temperate zones, summers can be quite hot and winter can be very cold. People have to dress according to the season. During the summer people wear lighter clothing to stay cool. During the winter people wear thick clothing to stay warm.