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FRANCE’S GEOGRAPHY & LANDSCAPE

The Climate Because of the wind that blows off the Atlantic Ocean, bringing warm temperatures with it, France has a relatively moderate climate. This results in mild winters and cool summers, with temperatures in the French capital of Paris rarely getting below 34º to 40ºF (1º to 6ºC) in the winter or above 55º to 75ºF (13º to 24ºC) in the summer. While this proximity to the sea means a warmer climate, the winds that travel through France also bring precipitation. Because of this, it is not uncommon for skies to be overcast and for a steady drizzle to fall from the clouds. However, the temperature rarely gets cold enough to snow. Though this oceanic climate applies to most of central France, in the northeastern areas, the weather is affected more by winds coming from over the land. This continental climate results in cold winters and hot summers. Snowstorms are not uncommon in this part of the country, and in cities like Strasbourg. Once winter is over, frequent thunderstorms bring heavy precipitation as temperatures rise and summer comes. ABOVE: The Lighthouse of Brittany. Brittany is in the northwest of France next to the Atlantic Ocean and consequently has a very changeable climate. Warm sunshine often gives way to strong winds and storms.

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