Both Arctic and alpine tundras have very cold climates, although variations in temperature ranges may occur because of location. Arctic tundra located high above sea level (the average height of the sea) has a colder climate. If tundra is found near the coast, ocean currents can affect the temperature. For example, the North Atlantic Drift, a warm ocean current, warms the coast of northern Scandinavia. However, the coast of northeastern Canada is colder due to the influence of the Labrador Current, an icy current that mixes with the warmer waters. Arctic tundra is also windy, with winds ranging between 30 to 60 miles (48 to 97 kilometers) per hour.

Unlike Arctic tundra, alpine tundra has a more moderate climate that varies with latitude and altitude. The farther away from the equator, the colder the temperature becomes. The higher the altitude, the colder and windier the climate. At 15,000 feet (4,500 meters) above sea level...