Hello from California! Around the world, this state in particular in the United States is known for its ideal climate with sunny days almost year-round. California has a Mediterranean-like climate with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. During the summer, temperatures can rise all the way up to 100°F, though it is generally cooler in the northern part of the state.
California consists of four main geographical regions. The coastal region lines the western edge of the state that borders the Pacific Ocean. It is characterized by beaches in southern California and by steep cliffs plunging into the Pacific in northern California. The southeast corner of the state is mainly a desert region. It includes the Mojave Desert and Death Valley, famous for being the “hottest place on Earth” in the summer. The inner part of the state is the central valley region, which includes rivers and a rich delta perfect for agricultural production. Finally, the rest of the state is characterized by a mountainous region, including the Sierra Nevada, a mountain range that includes Yosemite National Park.
Like in much of the world, California faces its own environmental problems and the effects of climate change can be clearly seen. For instance, research has shown that the sea level has risen almost 8 inches in the past century, and is predicted to rise an additional 20 to 55 inches by the end of this century. This concern is especially pressing to the people of California since many live near the coast where coastal flooding and erosion can occur.
Heat waves are also an increasingly big problem in California due to climate change. Recently, Governor Newsom signed legislation to attempt to protect Californians from these climate-change driven heat waves. Governor Newsom has been focusing on reducing the sales of gas-powered vehicles and replacing them with electric ones to reduce the effects of climate change.
Overall, California has a diverse geography and pleasant climate, though more efforts need to be made to reduce climate change and lower greenhouse gas emissions to protect it.
- Camille Roussel - USA (West Coast)