geography of Latvia
Answer (1)
Latvia, a country in the Baltic region of Northern Europe, has a relatively small but diverse geography. Here's a summary: Location and SizeLatvia is bordered by Estonia to the north, Lithuania to the south, Russia to the east, and the Baltic Sea to the west. It's a relatively flat country, with a total area of approximately 64,589 square kilometers (24,938 square miles).TopographyThe landscape is predominantly low-lying plains, with a gently rolling terrain. The highest point, Gaiziņkalns, reaches only 312 meters (1,024 feet) above sea level. There are some hills and low mountains in the eastern and southeastern parts of the country. The coastline is relatively long and features sandy beaches, dunes, and lagoons.DrainageLatvia has a dense network of rivers and lakes. The Daugava River is the largest and most important river, flowing through the country from its source in Russia. Numerous smaller rivers and streams contribute to the country's extensive drainage system. Lakes are abundant, especially in the central and eastern regions, many of which are glacial in origin.ClimateLatvia has a temperate climate, influenced by its location on the Baltic Sea. Summers are relatively mild and short, while winters are long and relatively cold, although milder than inland areas at the same latitude. Precipitation is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year.Natural ResourcesLatvia possesses some natural resources, including forests (a significant part of the country's landscape), peat, limestone, and gypsum. The Baltic Sea also provides resources such as fish.RegionsWhile not officially divided into distinct geographical regions in the same way as some countries, Latvia's landscape varies subtly across its territory. The western coastal region is distinct from the central and eastern plains, with the eastern regions often having slightly more elevated terrain.Environmental ConcernsLike many countries, Latvia faces environmental challenges, including pollution from industry and agriculture, deforestation, and the impact of climate change on its coastal areas and ecosystems. In short, Latvia's geography is characterized by its flat plains, extensive river and lake systems, temperate climate, and significant forest cover. Its relatively small size and coastal location significantly influence its climate and ecology.
