Climate characteristics of Zonguldak and Devrek

Climate; natural environment is very influential element of human life and activities. Therefore, it is important to know of an area's climate. In this study, the climatic characteristics of Zonguldak and Devrek in the Western Black Sea Region were examined and compared. Between the years 1965-2018 The climate data of Zonguldak and Devrek were obtained from the General Directorate of Meteorology and analyzed. The obtained results are supported by transforming them into tables and graphics. Also; the place and characteristics of Zonguldak and Devrek in climate classifications were determined by using Köppen, De Martonne, Thornthwaite and Erinç methods. Zonguldak and Devrek show similar characteristics in terms of climate. However, there are some differences when the climatic elements are evaluated. Although the two meteorological observation stations show similar characteristics in terms of temperature conditions, there are important differences according to precipitation conditions. The mean yearly temperature of Zonguldak is 13,8° C, and the temperature of Devrek is 14,2° C. While the mean annual precipitation is 1210.7 mm in Zonguldak, it is 769.1 mm in Devrek. According to Rubinstein's formula; the prevailing wind direction of Zonguldak is S 37° E with a frequency of %42.4. In Devrek; the annual prevailing wind direction is N 18° E sector with a frequency of %37.4, the second-degree prevailing wind direction is is S 31° W and has a frequency of %41. In addition, according to climate classification, there are also differences as well as similarities. According to the Köppen classification; Zonguldak and Devrek are in the mild temperate zone, from humid/moist temperate climates to a climate that is mild winters, very hot in summer and rainy in all seasons. According to De Martonne classification; Zonguldak and Devrek fall into oceanic climate zone. According to Erinç's Precipitation Efficiency Index; Zonguldak very humid climate, vegetation is very humid forest; Devrek is classified as a semi-humid climate and an arid forest with a park-like vegetation. As a result of all the data in this study, it has been determined that while the Black Sea climate prevails in Zonguldak, characteristics similar to the Black Sea climate are observed in Devrek, but terrestrial effects also manifest themselves.