A large number of people come to California in order to enjoy the benefits of the celebrated climate.  It comes as a surprise, therefore, to many newcomers to learn that within the State are to be found a variety of climates, ranging from one extreme to the other.  Temperatures have been recorded from minus 45° to 134° F.  Annual precipitation at one measuring station has exceeded 161 inches, while other points have gone for more than a year with no measureable rain.  A Californian, if he is free to select his living site, may choose almost any kind of climate.  This variation in climate results from a number of causes.

The topography of the State is varied and includes Death Valley, the lowest point in the U.S., with an elevation of 276 feet below sea level and less than 85 miles away, Mt. Whitney, the highest peak in the conterminous states at 14,495 feet above sea level.  These wide ranges of altitude are responsible in part for the variety of climates and vegetation found in the State.  Another significant factor is the continuous interaction of maritime air masses with those of continental origin.  The combination of these influences results in pronounced climatic changes within short distances.