The climate of the Great Basin is primarily arid or semi-arid, with little rainfall and dry conditions.

The Great Basin experiences an arid or semi-arid climate, characterized by low precipitation and hot summers. This climate type leads to dry deserts, salt flats, and limited vegetation. It does not have a tropical climate, which is typically associated with higher humidity, more rainfall, and warm temperatures year-round. While parts of the Great Basin can experience cooler temperatures in the mountains, the region as a whole does not fit the description of a tropical climate. Temperate climates are also not typical, as the Great Basin is not generally mild and wet year-round.