The main difference between weather and climate lies in their time scales and scope. Weather refers to short-term atmospheric conditions, such as temperature, humidity, precipitation, and wind, experienced in a specific location over hours or days. Climate, on the other hand, describes the long-term average of weather patterns in a region over extended periods, typically 30 years or more. Understanding both is important because while weather affects daily decisions, climate influences long-term planning, agriculture, and infrastructure. Climate data helps scientists predict future trends, such as climate change, while weather forecasting supports immediate actions, like preparing for storms or heatwaves.