Köppen Climates

Due to the influence of oceanic currents, jet streams, and rain shadow deserts. The island chain has an incredibly varied climate ranging from tundra at the highest peaks to arid deserts on the eastern shores. This variety has enabled each island to produce unique endemic forms of life. Using the Köppen climate classification, the islands are revealed to have 7 distinct climates.

Csb - Mediterranean warm summer

These dry-summer climates are mainly located peripheral to the many peaks of the island chain. They are characterized by average warm-month temperatures not reaching past 22 °C (71.6 °F). Animals and plants here favor drier conditions in summer and prolonged wet periods in the winter.

Csc - Mediterranean cold summer

These climates are present on many of the higher peaks of the island chain. They are unique for serving as a refugia for cold-favoring animals and plants descended from species. A small area of Csc also exists on Gasmensyi due to the cooling effect of the Labrador current. These areas are known for having cooler winters and snow is not uncommon.

Cfa - Humid subtropical

These subtropical climates occur on the coasts of the islands that experience the greatest exposure to the Gulf Stream. These areas have warm and moist conditions in the summer and less frigid winters. On the islands, many of the Cfa regions exhibit a climate similar to the Everglades. These areas are incredibly biodiverse and a hotspot for ectothermic animals.

Cfb - Oceanic Climate

These climates occur across many of the islands and are characterized by frequent rain and overcast skies. Summers are mild due to cooler ocean currents while winters are also not as severe. These areas are great for plant growth. This has lead to incredible biodiversity, as well as increased human development in these areas.

ET - Ice Cap

This climate only occurs on the tallest peaks in the islands. They are characterized by monthly average temperatures rarely exceeding 0 °C (32 °F). Despite their inhospitable nature, these areas are refugia for colder tolerant animals and plants. They also serve as a source of the few natural creeks and springs on the islands. However with global warming trends these areas are also rapidly shrinking in size, putting their future in doubt.

BSk - Cold Semi-arid

These climates are located in the rain shadow behind the tallest volcanic mountains of the Mossfells. They also serve as a transition between the cold Mediterranean and hot semi-arid zones. These areas are noted for having moderate summers and cold winters, occasionally with snowfall. The largest cold semi-arid areas on Neffannafjall are host to many species of high prairie flora and fauna.

BSh - Hot Semi-arid

These climates are located in the deepest parts of the rain shadow deserts, often right by the ocean. They are characterized by their hot summers and moderate winters. The largest hot semi-arid areas on Neffannafjall are home to many reptile species as well as drought-tolerant flora.

**Reefs

Not a designation on the Köppen Climate Classification, but an important feature nonetheless are the many reefs around the Mossfells. These reefs benefit from the confluence between warm and cold water currents, leading to a proliferation of corals and sponges between the islands. Due to the crossroads of currents, many unique descendants from artic and subtropical oceans reside in the reefs of the Mossfells.