Antarctic zone

The Antarctic zone is the southernmost climatic zone, characterized by extreme cold, dryness, and strong winds. It is primarily defined by the continent of Antarctica, which is almost entirely covered by a vast ice sheet.12

Key Characteristics:

• Temperature: Winter temperatures can plummet to record lows, with coastal areas experiencing averages between -4 to -22 °F (-20 to -30 °C), while the interior can reach -40 to -94 °F (-40 to -70 °C). Summer temperatures are also frigid, with coastal means around 32 °F (0 °C) and interior temperatures much lower.1
• Precipitation: Despite the vast amount of ice, Antarctica is a desert due to low atmospheric water vapor. Precipitation is minimal, averaging about 2 inches (50 mm) per year on the polar plateau, though coastal areas receive more. Snow is common, and rain is rare.13
• Winds: Fierce winds, known as katabatic winds, are a defining feature, especially in coastal regions. These winds can reach speeds over 110 miles per hour, contributing to the extreme wind chill factor.1
• Ice: The continent holds about 90% of the world's ice and 80% of its fresh water. Ice shelves, such as the Ross Ice Shelf, fringe the continental margins.2

The Antarctic zone extends south of the Antarctic Convergence, around 55° S latitude, where warm and cold ocean waters meet.2