A climatic type associated with the interior of large land masses in mid-latitudes. Without the moderating influence of the sea, summer and winter temperatures are extreme. Precipitation is low, as the region is distant from moisture-bearing winds. The European Union PESETA project predicts that the greatest temperature rises related to global warming will be in continental climates; Klingbjer et al. (2005) Geografiska A 87, 1 consider the effect of global warming on continental climate and glacier dynamics. Bergh et al. (2003) For. Ecol. & Manage. 183, 1–3 compare net primary productivity in continental and maritime climates.