How much snow does the southern hemisphere see?

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In summary, it does snow in places like southern South America and southern Africa during their winter seasons. This includes Antarctica as well, although it receives very little precipitation overall. There has been heavy snowfall in Chile, causing record damage and making it a popular destination for skiing. The reason it may not be as well-known is because there are fewer people and less land in the southern hemisphere compared to the northern hemisphere. The southernmost parts of Chile, South Africa, and New Zealand all have similar latitudes to well-known northern cities such as Baltimore, Denmark, and Europe.
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Holocene
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Does it snow in places like southern south America or southern Africa durring their winter seasons? If not, why?
 
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  • #2
It does. Both places. It also snows in Antartica, but not very much because the continent as a whole receives very little precipitation.

http://visibleearth.nasa.gov/view_rec.php?id=3385 [Broken]
http://www.nowpublic.com/heavy-snowfall-chile-causes-record-damage

Or google chile ski resort
 
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  • #3
It snows a HUGE amount in Patagonia in S Chile.
 
  • #4
Are you asking because you haven't heard about much in the southern hemisphere? That's probably because there aren't anywhere near as many people or as much land far south as far north. For example, the southernmost portion of Australia is at about 39 degrees latitude - the equivalent of Baltimore. degrees. South Africa is 34 degrees. The southern tip of Chile, however, is 55 degrees, about the same south as Denmark or Newfoundland is north. And the southernmost part of New Zeland is 46 degrees, similar to the middle of Europe.
 

1. How does snow form in the southern hemisphere?

Snow in the southern hemisphere forms due to the same process as in the northern hemisphere. It requires cold temperatures, moisture, and lifting of air masses. However, since the southern hemisphere experiences winter during the months of June, July, and August, snow is more likely to form in mountainous regions rather than low-lying areas.

2. How much snow does the southern hemisphere receive annually?

The amount of snow received in the southern hemisphere varies greatly depending on the location. Countries closer to the equator, such as Chile and Argentina, receive very little snow, while countries like Australia and New Zealand can receive significant amounts in their mountainous regions. On average, the southern hemisphere receives less snow than the northern hemisphere.

3. What is the most common type of snow in the southern hemisphere?

The most common type of snow in the southern hemisphere is dry, powdery snow. This is due to the colder temperatures and lower humidity compared to the northern hemisphere. However, in regions with higher humidity, such as near the coast, wetter and heavier snow can occur.

4. How does snow in the southern hemisphere affect the climate?

Snow in the southern hemisphere can have a significant impact on the climate. It reflects sunlight, which can contribute to cooling temperatures. It also plays a role in the water cycle, providing a source of freshwater for rivers and lakes when it melts.

5. Are there any patterns or trends in snowfall in the southern hemisphere?

There are some patterns and trends in snowfall in the southern hemisphere. For example, the amount of snow received in the southern hemisphere has been decreasing in recent years due to global warming. Additionally, the timing and duration of snowfall have also been shifting, with some regions experiencing earlier or later snowfall than usual. These changes can have significant impacts on the environment and local communities.

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