What brings harsh winters to ulaanbaatar and Hokkaido Japan?

The primary factors that contribute to the harsh winters experienced in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, and Hokkaido, Japan are their geographic locations and climatic conditions:

1. Geographic Location:

- Ulaanbaatar: Ulaanbaatar is situated in a high-altitude basin in central Mongolia. Its location at 1350 meters (4429 feet) above sea level makes it one of the highest capital cities in the world. This high elevation means that Ulaanbaatar is more susceptible to colder temperatures and increased snowfall compared to lower-lying areas.

- Hokkaido: Hokkaido is the northernmost island of Japan. Its proximity to the Sea of Japan and the Okhotsk Sea makes it vulnerable to cold air masses and moisture from these waters. Hokkaido's location along the northernmost edge of Japan also means that it is more directly affected by cold air from Siberia and the Russian Far East.

2. Continental Climate:

- Ulaanbaatar: Ulaanbaatar experiences a continental climate characterized by extreme temperature variations. Winters are bitterly cold due to the city's location far from any moderating influences of large bodies of water. Temperatures can drop below -30 degrees Celsius (-22 degrees Fahrenheit) during the winter months.

- Hokkaido: Hokkaido's climate is also continental, with cold, snowy winters and relatively cool summers. The island's location makes it susceptible to cold air masses from Siberia, which can bring heavy snowfall and frigid temperatures.

3. Influence of Siberian Winds:

- Both Ulaanbaatar and Hokkaido are influenced by the cold air masses originating from Siberia. These air masses, known as Siberian winds or Siberian highs, bring extremely low temperatures and can cause severe winter storms.

4. Snowfall:

- Ulaanbaatar receives an average annual snowfall of around 30 centimeters (12 inches), while Hokkaido can experience snowfall of up to several meters (yards) during the winter season. The heavy snowfall can lead to transportation disruptions, power outages, and hazardous road conditions.

In summary, the combination of high altitude, continental climate, influence of Siberian winds, and significant snowfall makes Ulaanbaatar and Hokkaido prone to harsh winter conditions.