Deserts Around The Globe Questions Medium
The Gobi Desert, located in northern China and southern Mongolia, experiences a unique climate pattern characterized by extreme temperature fluctuations and low precipitation.
The Gobi Desert has a cold desert climate, with long, harsh winters and short, hot summers. During the winter months, temperatures can drop below freezing, reaching as low as -40 degrees Celsius (-40 degrees Fahrenheit). In contrast, summer temperatures can soar to over 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). This significant temperature difference between seasons is due to the desert's inland location, far from any moderating influences of large bodies of water.
Precipitation in the Gobi Desert is scarce and highly variable. The average annual rainfall ranges from 50 to 200 millimeters (2 to 8 inches), with most of it occurring during the summer months. However, the Gobi Desert is also prone to droughts, with some years experiencing little to no rainfall. This lack of moisture, combined with high evaporation rates, contributes to the aridity of the desert.
The Gobi Desert is also known for its strong winds, which further contribute to its harsh climate. These winds, known as "gobiin davaa" or "gobi storms," can reach speeds of up to 140 kilometers per hour (87 miles per hour) and carry large amounts of dust and sand, creating sandstorms that reduce visibility and further exacerbate the arid conditions.
Overall, the climate patterns in the Gobi Desert are characterized by extreme temperature variations, low precipitation, and strong winds, making it one of the most inhospitable and challenging environments on Earth.