Climate & Weather
How Elevation Affects Weather: A Complete Guide
Discover the fascinating relationship between elevation and weather patterns.
Elevation of Berkeley, California
52 meters elevation
Sea Level (0m)Mount Everest (8,848m)
-0.3°C
Temperature Drop
100.7kPa
Air Pressure
99.4%
Oxygen Level
Quick Facts
Elevation52 meters
Everest Comparison0.6% of Everest
Altitude Risk✅ Low RiskBelow altitude sickness threshold
RegionCalifornia
Highest PointGrizzly Peak (1759 meters)
Notable Landmarks
UC Berkeley Campanile
94 meterselevation
Lawrence Hall of Science
457 meterselevation
Tilden Park
591 meterselevation
Indian Rock Park
171 meterselevation
Berkeley Rose Garden
165 meterselevation
Geographic Features
Berkeley rises dramatically from sea level to the Berkeley Hills, reaching elevations over 500 meters within city limits. The geology features the active Hayward Fault running through the heart of the city, while the hills expose ancient volcanic and sedimentary formations. The western flatlands consist of alluvial deposits, with Strawberry Creek and Codornices Creek carving distinct valleys through the terrain. The Berkeley Hills create a natural amphitheater above the bay plain, with numerous rock outcrops exposed along their face.
Climate Impact
At elevations ranging from sea level to over 500 meters, Berkeley experiences distinct microclimates shaped by topography. The elevation variations create marked temperature differences, with summer highs reaching 26°C near the bay while hill neighborhoods remain notably cooler. Annual rainfall varies from 64cm in the flats to over 86cm in the hills. The hills significantly influence fog patterns, often creating a sharp demarcation between foggy and clear conditions. The atmospheric pressure ranges from sea level to 94% of sea level in the highest neighborhoods. The growing season extends year-round at lower elevations, though hill areas experience occasional frost.
Historical Context
Berkeley's relationship with elevation shaped its development from Spanish ranchland into a university town. The establishment of UC Berkeley on a hillside terrace represented early understanding of drainage and views, while the construction of Grizzly Peak Boulevard in the 1930s opened the hills to development. The creation of hillside paths and steps provided innovative pedestrian connections across elevation changes. Modern Berkeley continues to address elevation-related challenges through sophisticated fire prevention systems in the hills and seismic retrofit requirements that consider both soil conditions and slope stability.
Cities with Similar Elevation
FAQs: Berkeley's Elevation
What is the elevation of Berkeley?
Berkeley has an elevation of 52 meters, which influences its climate and environment.
How does Berkeley's elevation affect its weather?
The elevation of Berkeley (52 meters) significantly impacts its local climate, affecting temperature ranges, precipitation patterns, and atmospheric pressure.
What are the highest points near Berkeley?
The highest point in Berkeley is Grizzly Peak (1759 meters), providing unique perspectives of the surrounding landscape.
