Which climate zone has hot dry summers and mild wet winters?

The climate zone with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters is the Mediterranean climate. Its defining seasonal rhythm comes from shifting atmospheric circulation rather than from its name alone.

Mediterranean climates are usually found on the western sides of continents in the lower mid-latitudes, commonly between about 30° and 45° north or south. In summer, subtropical high-pressure systems suppress cloud formation and rainfall. In winter, the region shifts into the path of travelling weather systems, bringing more frequent rain and milder temperatures.

The largest example surrounds the Mediterranean Sea, but the same climate occurs in parts of California, central Chile, southwestern Australia, South Africa’s Western Cape, and other regions. Köppen classifications Csa and Csb distinguish hot-summer and warm-summer forms.

A common mix-up is confusing Mediterranean climate with any warm coastal climate. Oceanic climates generally have precipitation throughout the year, while monsoon climates usually feature a wet summer. Mediterranean vegetation—including evergreen shrubs, olives and cork oaks—is adapted to summer drought and periodic wildfire.