Steppe climates are intermediates between desert climates (BW) and humid climates in ecological characteristics and agricultural potential.
To determine if a location has a semi-arid climate, the precipitation threshold must first be determined. Finding the precipitation threshold (in millimeters) involves first multiplying the average annual temperature in °C by 20, then adding 280 if 70% or more of the total precipitation is in the high-sun half of the year (April through September in the Northern temperate zone, or October through March in the Southern), or 140 if 30%–70% of the total precipitation is received during the applicable period, or 0 if less than 30% of the total precipitation is so received. If the area's annual precipitation is less than the threshold but more than half the threshold, it is classified as a BS (steppe climate).
Hot semi-arid climates have a mean annual temperature of at least 18°C, or a mean temperature greater than 0°C in the coldest month.
Related climatic classifications
A selection of mineral localities found in this climate zone.