Why Is Summer Warmer Than Winter?

The temperature people feel outside is largely based on the absorption of radiant energy from the Sun. Differing seasonal temperatures are caused by the tilt of Earth’s axis, which is at an angle of about 23.4 degrees relative to its orbit around the Sun. Summer occurs when a part of Earth is tilted towards the Sun, resulting in the Sun’s rays hitting this part of Earth more directly. This direct sunlight means more solar energy is absorbed, leading to warmer temperatures. During this same time the opposite side of Earth experiences a period of shorter days and cooler temperatures, which we call winter. In the Northern Hemisphere summer begins around June 21, when the summer solstice occurs in the region. This same date marks the winter solstice and the beginning of winter in the Southern Hemisphere. Similarly, summer begins in the Southern Hemisphere around December 21, when winter begins in the Northern Hemisphere.

Latitude also plays a significant role in temperature differences between summer and winter. Regions closer to the equator experience less variation in temperature throughout the year due to the consistent angle of sunlight. However, in higher latitudes, the difference in solar angle between summer and winter is more pronounced, leading to more significant temperature variations. This is why tropical regions undergo little temperature change throughout the year, while temperate regions experience distinct seasons, with warm summers and cold winters.