Which climate type is found in middle latitudes near or surrounded by water, with temperate year-round weather, winter temperatures staying above freezing and summers rarely above 70°F?

• A. Humid Subtropical (Southeast)
• B. Marine
• C. Taiga
• D. Tundra

Answer: (B)

Proximity to the ocean creates a marine climate, where a large body of water acts like a thermostat. In middle latitudes, this moderating influence keeps temperatures fairly steady year-round: winters stay above freezing and summers stay relatively cool, with highs rarely climbing above 70°F. The result is a temperate climate with a small annual temperature range, typical of coastal areas that are surrounded or bordered by water. This contrasts with climates that have hotter summers or much colder winters, which show stronger temperature swings.