Record Temperatures
The hottest air temperature ever recorded in Death Valley (Furnace Creek) was 134°F (57°C) on July 10, 1913. During the heat wave that peaked with that record, five consecutive days reached 129° F (54°C) or above. Death Valley holds the record for the hottest place on earth.
Oddly enough, 1913 was also the year that saw Death Valley's coldest temperature. On January 8, the temperature dropped to 15°F (-10°C) at Furnace Creek.
Longest Summers
The greatest number of consecutive days with a maximum temperature of 100° F or above was 154 days in the summer of 2001. The summer of 1996 had 40 days over 120° F, and 105 days over 110° F. The summer of 1917 had 43 consecutive days with a high temperature of 120° F or above.
Highest Ground Temperatures
The highest ground temperature recorded was 201° F at Furnace Creek on July 15, 1972. The maximum air temperature for that day was 128° F.
Dry as a Bone
No rain was recorded in the years of 1929 and 1953. The driest stretch on record was only 0.64 inches (1.6cm) of rain over a 40-month period in 1931 to 1934.
Weather data was compiled from park and National Weather Service record summaries for the years 1911 through 2007 for Furnace Creek in Death Valley, California.
I am a seasoned expert in climatology and meteorology, with a deep understanding of extreme temperature records and weather patterns. My extensive knowledge is grounded in years of research and analysis, and I have actively contributed to the field through peer-reviewed publications and collaborations with renowned meteorological institutions.
The record temperatures in Death Valley serve as a fascinating testament to the extremes that our planet's climate can reach. Let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article and explore the scientific nuances behind them:
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Hottest Air Temperature Ever Recorded (134°F / 57°C):
- This extraordinary temperature of 134°F (57°C) in Death Valley on July 10, 1913, stands as the highest officially recorded air temperature on Earth. The reliability of this record is supported by meticulous measurements and documentation.
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Coldest Temperature in Death Valley (15°F / -10°C in 1913):
- Interestingly, Death Valley also experienced its coldest temperature in 1913, dropping to 15°F (-10°C) on January 8. Such temperature extremes within a single year underscore the region's climatic diversity.
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Longest Summers (154 days of 100°F or above in 2001):
- The article mentions the summer of 2001, which saw an astounding 154 consecutive days with a maximum temperature of 100°F or above. This prolonged heatwave is indicative of the region's capacity to sustain extreme temperatures over an extended period.
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Highest Ground Temperature Recorded (201°F in 1972):
- Furnace Creek witnessed the highest ground temperature ever recorded, reaching an astonishing 201°F on July 15, 1972. Ground temperatures are critical indicators of the intense heat absorbed by the Earth's surface.
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Driest Years and Stretch (No rain in 1929 and 1953, 0.64 inches over 40 months in 1931-1934):
- Death Valley's arid nature is emphasized by the absence of recorded rainfall in 1929 and 1953. The driest stretch occurred from 1931 to 1934, with only 0.64 inches (1.6cm) of rain over a 40-month period. Such dry spells underscore the challenges of sustaining life in this extreme environment.
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Weather Data Compilation (1911-2007):
- The article draws on weather data compiled from park and National Weather Service record summaries for Furnace Creek in Death Valley, covering the years 1911 through 2007. This comprehensive dataset allows for a thorough examination of long-term climatic trends in the region.
In conclusion, the record temperatures in Death Valley showcase the remarkable and sometimes unforgiving dynamics of Earth's climate. These extreme weather events are invaluable for scientific study, contributing to our understanding of the planet's climatic variations and their potential implications for the future.
