Mandriõhumass

Mandriõhumass refers to a large body of air that has a relatively uniform temperature and humidity, and originates over a continental landmass. These air masses are typically dry because the land surface they form over does not readily supply moisture. The temperature of a continental air mass depends on the latitude and season of its origin. For example, a continental polar air mass forming over Siberia in winter will be very cold and dry, while a continental tropical air mass forming over the Sahara Desert in summer will be hot and dry.

When a continental air mass moves into a new region, it can significantly influence the weather. Cold, dry continental polar air moving south in the Northern Hemisphere can bring crisp, clear conditions, but also frost or even snow if temperatures drop low enough. Conversely, hot, dry continental tropical air moving into a region can lead to heatwaves and drought conditions. The interaction of different air masses, including continental ones, is a primary driver of weather patterns and phenomena such as fronts and storms. The characteristics of a continental air mass tend to moderate as it moves over water, where it can pick up moisture and become more maritime in nature.