The warmest place in the world, based on the highest air temperature ever recorded, is Furnace Creek in Death Valley, California, USA.
Record-Breaking Heat
Furnace Creek holds the official world record for the highest air temperature ever documented on Earth. On July 10, 1913, a scorching temperature of 56.7°C (134°F) was recorded here.
Even outside of this extreme record, Death Valley consistently ranks among the hottest places globally, especially during the summer months. The average daily high temperature in Death Valley during summer frequently reaches around 45°C (113°F). It's important to note that these figures represent air temperatures measured in the shade, and surface temperatures, particularly on dark asphalt or rock, can be significantly higher, often exceeding 90°C (194°F).
To put this record into perspective, consider the following:
| Location | Record Temperature | Date | Verified By |
|---|---|---|---|
| Furnace Creek | 56.7°C (134°F) | July 10, 1913 | WMO |
Why Death Valley is So Hot
Death Valley's extreme temperatures are a result of a unique combination of geographical and climatic factors:
- Elevation: Much of Death Valley lies below sea level, with Furnace Creek sitting at approximately 58 meters (190 feet) below sea level. This low elevation means the air pressure is higher, allowing air to absorb more heat.
- Topography: The valley is surrounded by tall, steep mountain ranges. As air flows over these mountains and descends into the valley, it gets compressed and heated rapidly, a phenomenon known as adiabatic heating. This trapped, hot air has nowhere to escape.
- Lack of Moisture: The region is an extremely arid desert. There is very little water vapor in the air or ground, which means less energy is used for evaporation (a natural cooling process). This allows the ground and air to heat up more efficiently.
- Dark Surface: The dark, rocky surfaces in the valley absorb more solar radiation, contributing to the intense heat.
Understanding Temperature Readings
When discussing extreme heat, it's crucial to distinguish between different types of measurements:
- Air Temperature: This is the standard measurement, taken by thermometers placed in shaded, well-ventilated areas, typically about 1.5 meters (5 feet) above the ground. This ensures readings are not influenced by direct sunlight or surface heat.
- Surface Temperature: This refers to the temperature of the ground or any exposed surface. In direct sunlight, surface temperatures can be significantly higher than air temperatures, often by tens of degrees Celsius.
For more information on the world's weather extremes and climate records, you can refer to organizations like the World Meteorological Organization.
