What is the general definition of "climate" versus "weather"?

The concept of climate and weather is foundational in meteorology. Climate is defined as the long-term average of weather patterns in a particular area, typically over a period of 30 years or more. It encompasses the expected conditions, such as seasonal temperatures and precipitation averages, that characterize an area over time.

On the other hand, weather refers to the short-term atmospheric conditions at a specific time and place. This includes factors such as temperature, humidity, precipitation, wind speed, and atmospheric pressure that can change from moment to moment and day to day.

The distinction lies primarily in the time scale: climate looks at long-term trends and averages, while weather focuses on immediate, day-to-day conditions. This understanding is crucial for interpreting weather forecasts and climate data effectively, aiding in comprehending how environmental patterns shift over time.