Why does Mongolia receive relatively little precipitation?

Mongolia experiences relatively little precipitation primarily because of its geographic location. Situated at high latitudes and high elevations, the country is located far from the moderating influences of the ocean. This significant distance from maritime moisture sources results in a pronounced continental climate characterized by generally scanty precipitation.1

Because of this inland position, the country is largely shielded from the moisture-bearing winds that typically bring rainfall to coastal regions. Consequently, annual precipitation levels are low, ranging from less than 4 inches (100 mm) in the arid southern and western desert regions to about 14 inches (350 mm) in the northern mountains. This moisture is also highly variable in its timing and amount, often occurring as sporadic summer thunderstorms.1