CONTINENTALITY IS A climatic effect that results from a continental interior being insulated from oceanic influences. Winds and air masses of moderate temperature that originate over oceans move onshore to diminish differences in winter and summer temperatures in coastal areas of continents.

What are the effects of Continentality?

The continents affect climate through temperature - land surfaces warm and cool (radiative processes) much faster than do the oceans; ocean currents bring warm waters to some coastal areas and reduce seasonal cooling.

Why does Continentality affect climate?

Distance from the sea (Continentality)

Coastal areas are cooler and wetter than inland areas. Clouds form when warm air from inland areas meets cool air from the sea. The centre of continents are subject to a large range of temperatures.