What type of climate is characterized by having hot, dry summers?

The Mediterranean climate is characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. This climate type is typically found in regions such as the Mediterranean Basin, parts of California, and areas of Australia. The defining feature of this climate is the significant temperature contrast between the hot summers, where precipitation is scarce, and the cooler, wetter winters. The combination of these seasonal variations supports unique ecosystems and agricultural practices, making the Mediterranean climate particularly suitable for growing crops like olives, grapes, and various fruits.

In contrast, other climate types listed do not share these characteristics. The humid continental climate experiences more varied temperature extremes, including cold winters and warm summers with consistent precipitation throughout the year. The marine west coast climate is characterized by moist conditions year-round with moderate temperatures, typically lacking the pronounced dry summer. Lastly, the subarctic climate features long, harsh winters and short, mild summers, which does not align with the hot, dry summer characteristic of the Mediterranean climate.