What climatic factor contributes to the high diurnal range in many areas of Austria?

The high diurnal range in many areas of Austria is primarily influenced by high altitudes. In regions with considerable elevation, the temperature can drop significantly at night after a warm day, leading to a greater difference between daytime and nighttime temperatures. This is particularly pronounced in wine-growing areas where vineyards are often situated on slopes or higher terrain.

High altitudes mean cooler temperatures overall, but the specific variable of clear skies during the night allows for heat to escape quickly. Thus, the significant variance between the warmer daytime temperatures and cooler nighttime conditions is what characterizes the high diurnal range.

While cooling northern winds, coastal breezes, and humid southern winds can affect local climates and conditions, they do not contribute to the characteristic high diurnal range in mountainous areas like those found in Austria to the same extent as altitude does.