The hottest day in human history, based on official records, occurred on July 10, 1913, when the temperature reached an astonishing 56.7°C (134°F).
This extreme temperature remains the highest air temperature ever recorded on Earth by standard instrumentation. The record-setting event was meticulously documented and has undergone rigorous validation processes, confirming its authenticity as a significant benchmark in meteorological history.
Key Details of the Record-Breaking Temperature
The record value for the highest temperature ever recorded has been thoroughly reviewed and confirmed by meteorological experts. Here's a breakdown of the specifics:
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Record Value | 56.7°C (134°F) |
| Date of Record | July 10, 1913 |
| Formal WMO Review | Yes (conducted 2010-2012) |
| Length of Record | 1911-present |
| Instrumentation Used | Regulation Weather Bureau thermometer shelter using a maximum thermometer graduated to 135°F |
Significance of the Record
The validation of this record is crucial for climatology and understanding extreme weather events. The formal review process, which took place from 2010 to 2012, involved a detailed examination of the historical data, the instrumentation used, and the conditions at the time. This rigorous scrutiny ensures the reliability of the record, making it a definitive point of reference for global temperature extremes.
How Such Records Are Maintained
Maintaining global weather records involves a sophisticated system of observation, data collection, and expert review.
- Standardized Instrumentation: To ensure comparability, weather stations around the world use standardized equipment, such as specific types of thermometers housed in Stevenson screens or similar shelters, which protect the instruments from direct sunlight and radiant heat.
- Rigorous Verification: When a potential new record is observed, it undergoes a formal verification process. This includes checking the calibration of the instruments, the observer's practices, and any local environmental factors that might have influenced the reading.
- Historical Context: Analyzing long-term temperature records provides valuable insights into climate patterns and changes over time, highlighting both natural variability and long-term trends.
Understanding this historic temperature provides a baseline for comprehending the extremes of Earth's climate and serves as a reminder of the planet's vast range of environmental conditions.
