Explain how the surrounding geographic features affect the climate of Cantábria.
(4 points)
1. Cantábria is located in northern Spain and is surrounded by the Bay of Biscay to the north, the Cantabrian Mountains to the south, and the Atlantic Ocean to the west. These geographic features contribute to the region's maritime climate.
2. The Bay of Biscay and the Atlantic Ocean have a moderating effect on the climate of Cantábria, keeping temperatures relatively mild throughout the year. The ocean also provides moisture, resulting in higher levels of precipitation in the region.
3. The Cantabrian Mountains act as a barrier, blocking cold air masses from the interior of the Iberian Peninsula and helping to trap moisture coming off the ocean. This can lead to higher levels of precipitation and cloud cover in the region.
4. The combination of these geographic features results in a climate in Cantábria that is characterized by mild temperatures, high humidity, and relatively high levels of rainfall, particularly in the coastal areas. The mountains also create microclimates within the region, with higher elevations experiencing cooler temperatures and more precipitation.