Population: 6,073,550 (1995)
Capital: Boston, Population 574,283 (1990)
Nickname: Bay State, Old Colony State
Year of Admission: February 6, 1788
Order of Admission: 6 |
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Area: 9,241 sq miles (23,934 sq kilometers) (the 45th biggest state).
Location: Massachusetts is situated on the Northeast of United States
Borders: Vermont & New Hampshire on the North, Rhode Island & Connecticut on the South & New York on the West
Climate: Massachusetts has a humid continental climate, with long hot summers and cold winters. Cape Cod and the islands of Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket, however, usually have cooler summer temperatures because of the moderating effects of the ocean, which also give the region somewhat warmer temperatures in winter. The coastal areas are prone to severe storms. Hurricanes come from the south frequently between June and November. “Northeasters,” coming from the polar regions of the Atlantic Ocean, occur year round but are the most severe in the winter. Snowstorms, blizzards, and ice storms also cause major damage each winter. Every few years a strong tornado will touch down in Massachusetts.
Elevation extremes:
Lowest point: Sea Level
Highest point: Mount Greylock - 3,487 feet (1,063 m)
Land Area: 7,838 sq miles
Water area: 1,403 sq miles
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