Here's why:
* Distance from oceans: Oceans act as temperature regulators, warming land in the winter and cooling it in the summer. Continental climates experience a greater temperature range between seasons because they lack this moderating effect.
* Landmass size: Large landmasses allow for more extreme temperature differences across the continent.
* Prevailing winds: Prevailing winds can also influence the climate. Winds that originate over oceans carry moisture and moderate temperatures, while winds originating over land tend to be drier and more extreme.
Examples of regions with continental climates:
* Central Asia: The vast landmass of Central Asia is far from oceans and experiences extreme temperature differences between summer and winter.
* Central North America: The central plains of North America are also far from oceans and have a continental climate.
* Eastern Europe: Eastern Europe is located in the interior of the continent and experiences a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers.