Intricacies of Santa Barbara microclimates
SANTA BARBARA - Calif. Santa Barbara is a destination spot for many because of the beauty, lifestyle and the almost "perfect" year-round weather. This wonderful city is also home to a natural phenomenon, microclimates.
A microclimate is a localized climate that differs from the surrounding areas, this can mean sunshine and 70s a few streets away from clouds and cool weather. These microclimates are shaped by the unique geography, ocean currents, elevation changes and coastal winds. Add the ingredients together to create a dynamic and ever changing forecast.
Santa Barbara lies along an east to west coastline which creates a "coastal bowl" that traps warm air and fog. We can also thank the mountains and marine layer for blocking inland heat and cold, keeping winters milder and summers less extreme. With changing elevations all over the city, different microclimates appear.
Near the immediate coast, temperatures typically sit between the 60s and 70s due to sea breeze and marine layer influence. A few miles inland, Hope Ranch which sits just above sea level, will see a slight rise in temperatures and faster clearing skies. If we go up the mountains and foothills, the temperature extremes vary along with the presence of sundowner winds. These areas are more prone to wildfire danger. Montecito is nestled between the coast and the mountains providing balanced temperatures year-round.
Ever-changing conditions help to give every visitor and community member a taste of their favorite weather. This is what makes Santa Barbara unique, beautiful and meteorologically rich.
