The geography of Kansas is characterized by its flat plains and rolling hills, making it part of the Great Plains region of the United States. The state covers approximately 82,278 square miles, with elevations ranging from about 680 feet in the east to over 4,000 feet in the west. Major rivers, such as the Kansas River and Arkansas River, flow through the state, providing essential water resources. Kansas experiences a continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. The state is divided into three distinct regions: the eastern part, which is more fertile and wooded; the central region, known for its agriculture; and the western area, which features drier landscapes and the High Plains.