A specific type of air mass originates over large landmasses in tropical regions. These air masses are characterized by their high temperatures and low moisture content. Due to their formation over land, they lack significant bodies of water to contribute moisture through evaporation. As a result, they are typically dry and stable, exerting a considerable influence on the weather patterns of adjacent areas. An example is air forming over the Sahara Desert, impacting weather in North Africa and occasionally extending into Southern Europe.
The significance of these air masses lies in their impact on temperature and precipitation patterns. They can contribute to heat waves and drought conditions in the regions they affect. Understanding their behavior is crucial for accurate weather forecasting, particularly in areas susceptible to extreme heat and dry conditions. Historically, the movement and influence of these air masses have played a role in agricultural practices and human settlement patterns in affected regions.