Here's why:

* Cool Summers: While summers are warm, they aren't hot like tropical or subtropical climates.

* Cold and Harsh Winters: Winters are characterized by significant snowfall and below-freezing temperatures.

* Dry Sparse Vegetation: Due to low rainfall, vegetation is mainly grasses and other drought-tolerant plants.

Other notable characteristics of steppe/prairie climates:

* Located in the interior of continents: Away from the moderating influence of oceans.

* Large temperature swings: Significant differences between summer and winter temperatures.

* Limited precipitation: Typically receive less than 20 inches of rain per year.

Examples of places with steppe/prairie climates:

* The Great Plains of North America

* The steppes of Central Asia

* The pampas of South America

* The veldt of South Africa