How do polar maritime climates differ from polar continental climates?

Polar maritime and polar continental climates are distinguished primarily by their proximity to the sea and the resulting impact on temperature and precipitation patterns.1

Polar Maritime Climates

These climates are typically found on northern islands and coastal regions adjacent to the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. Their key characteristics include:1
* Temperature: Winters are relatively moderate, with mean temperatures for the coldest month rarely falling below 20 °F (−7 °C). Extremely low temperatures are generally unknown in these areas.1
* Precipitation: These regions experience significant storminess, high winds, and heavy precipitation, which may fall as either snow or rain at sea level.1
* Conditions: Summers are relatively cool, and these areas are often characterized by widespread fog and low clouds.1

Polar Continental Climates

Found in interior regions such as northern Alaska, Canada, and Siberia, these climates are defined by their distance from moderating marine influences. Their key characteristics include:1
* Temperature: Winters are intensely cold, with mean temperatures often reaching −35 °F (−37 °C) in parts of the Siberian Arctic.1
* Precipitation: Snowfall is generally light, as these areas are often quiet with long periods of clear skies.1
* Conditions: In areas like the Canadian Arctic Archipelago, the influence of the sea is minimal during winter due to the presence of thick, unbroken sea ice.1