How does Germany’s climate differ between the northwest and the southeast?

Germany’s climate is defined by a transition from maritime influences in the northwest to continental patterns in the southeast.1

• Northwest: This region is dominated by moist, temperate air carried inland from the North Sea by prevailing westerly winds. This results in moderately warm summers, mild winters, and consistent humidity, often accompanied by fog and extended periods of rainfall during cooler seasons.1
• Southeast: As one moves toward the southeast, continental elements become more pronounced, leading to greater temperature extremes between summer and winter. The upland and plateau areas of the southeast experience more significant ranges of hot and cold weather. While the southeast can intermittently be the coldest part of the country in winter, its river valleys can also experience some of the hottest summer temperatures.1

Additionally, precipitation generally diminishes as one moves eastward toward the Eurasian interior. The mountains in the south and central regions are typically wetter and cooler than the lowlands, with westward-facing slopes receiving the highest rainfall.1