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Breaking Records: The World's Most Extreme Heat Events

As summer approaches, many of us plan our vacations around school holidays and warmer weather. But while some regions enjoy pleasant temperatures, others face extreme heat that pushes the boundaries of what humans can endure. Let's explore the highest temperatures ever recorded around the globe and what they tell us about our changing climate. (Data sourced from VividMaps)

Record-Breaking Heat: A Global Perspective

Death Valley, California, holds the crown for the highest reliably recorded temperature on Earth at a scorching 56.7°C (134°F), measured on July 10, 1913. However, an even higher reading of 58°C (136.4°F) was reported in El Azizia, Libya, on September 13, 1922, though this measurement's reliability has been debated by meteorologists.

Highest temperatures ever recorded mapped

The animated version of the map is here.

Top 5 Hottest Places on Earth:

  1. Libya (El Azizia): 58°C (136.4°F)
  2. USA (Death Valley): 56.7°C (134°F)
  3. Tunisia (Kebili): 55°C (131°F)
  4. Iran (Saqqez): 54°C (131°F)
  5. Kuwait (Mitribah): 53.9°C (129.0°F)

Recent Temperature Records Paint a Concerning Picture

What's particularly striking is how many temperature records have been broken recently. According to the data:

  • 102 countries set their all-time temperature records in the 2010s
  • 36 more countries have already broken their records in the 2020s
  • 32 records were set in the 2000s
  • 31 records date to the 1990s
  • Only 11 records from the 1980s still stand today


This trend aligns with findings from NASA's Global Temperature Analysis, which shows that recent years have consistently ranked among the warmest on record (NASA Climate).

Seasonal Patterns of Extreme Heat

July emerges as the peak month for record temperatures, with 54 countries logging their highest readings during this month. August follows with 47 countries, and June with 23. This pattern primarily reflects the Northern Hemisphere's summer, where most of Earth's landmass is located.


Interestingly, Southern Hemisphere countries often record their highest temperatures during what we consider winter months in the North. For example, Australia's highest temperature of 50.7°C (123.3°F) was recorded in January 1960 in Oodnadatta (Australian Bureau of Meteorology).

What This Means for Our Future

Recent studies suggest that extreme heat events are becoming more frequent and intense. The World Meteorological Organization reports that heat-related weather events have increased fivefold over the past 50 years (WMO Report).

Stay Prepared for Hot Weather

Whether you're planning summer travel or simply want to stay safe during hot weather, here are some essential products available on Amazon:

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