An overview of climatic features of the Ermenek River Basin

Abstract

Ermenek River is one of the two rivers that constitute the upper basin of Goksu River, one of the most important rivers which flow into the Mediterranean Sea in South Turkey. This research was conducted in order to identify the climatic features of the aforementioned basin. The climatic observations obtained from the three meteorological stations in the basin form the basic data of the study. These data were analyzed and converted to maps and charts. Planetary and geomorphological factors shape the climatic features in the research area. The Mediterranean climate, with its hot and dry summers and rainy winters, prevails over the basin. However, because the study area is between Central Anatolia and the Mediterranean region, and a large part of the area is at least 1500 meters above sea level, Mediterranean mountain climate is seen especially in higher regions. Rainfall effectiveness decreases from the west to the east. As Mediterranean climate prevails in the lower parts of the basin, Mediterranean mountain climate is dominant in higher areas.