Physical Geography

Denmark is a low-lying country with flat to gently rolling terrain. Virtually all the surface features were formed as a result of glaciation during the last Ice Age. Elevations in the hillier parts rarely exceed a few hundred feet; the highest point, on Jutland, is 568 feet (173 m) above sea level. On several of the islands there are scattered small areas of reclaimed land that lie below sea level. Sandy beaches are widespread; dunes line the western Jutland coast.

The coastal waters of Denmark, including broad interisland straits, are shallow—generally less than 60 feet (18 m) deep. Numerous bays and estuaries indent the land, making coastlines in many areas irregular. The largest body of inland water is the Lim Fjord in northern Jutland. There are no large rivers.

Denmark has an oceanic climate with cool summers and mild winters. In general, westerly winds prevail, bringing the ocean's warmth inland during winter and its coolness in summer. Occasionally, air masses from the east bring extreme summer heat and winter cold. January temperatures average about 32° F. (0° C.); July temperatures, about 60° F. (16° C.). Precipitation varies with location from about 22 to 28 inches (560 to 710 mm) annually and is heaviest in the west.