What is the difference between weather and climate?

The distinction between weather and climate is fundamentally based on the time scale involved. Weather encompasses the short-term atmospheric conditions in a specific place at a specific time, including variables such as temperature, humidity, precipitation, wind speed, and visibility. These conditions can change rapidly, reflecting daily or even hourly variations.

On the other hand, climate refers to the long-term average of weather patterns over an extended period, typically 30 years or more, for a specific region or location. Climate provides a broader perspective, allowing us to understand what kind of weather to expect over time, helping in planning for agriculture, infrastructure, and other societal needs.

This differentiation clarifies that weather reflects immediate conditions while climate gives an overarching view of what those conditions look like over a long duration. Understanding this distinction is crucial for interpreting meteorological data and making informed decisions based on environmental patterns.