Any idea what the highest air temperature ever record is, and where it occurred?
What You Need To Know
- The hottest temperature ever recorded on earth was in Death Valley, CA
- This measurement occurred in 1913
- Certain protocols are needed to accurately measure temperature
Well, according to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), a temperature of 134.1F (56.7C) was recorded on July 10, 1913, in Furnace Creek, CA, also known as Death Valley.
Now, there is a bit of a controversy surrounding this measurement as some believe it is four or five degrees too high. But, the WMO stands by this measurement.
Even so, another possibly more reliable measurement of 129.2F (54.0) was recorded in Death Valley on June 30, 2013. That temperature has been twice tied in Iran and Kuwait.
All that said, measuring the temperature correctly is not as simple as it may seem. There is a standard "protocol" that should be followed when placing a thermometer for measurement, and it includes the following:
- Thermometer should be five feet above ground
- Must be placed in the shade
- Should have good air flow
- Keep covered from precipitation
- Place above grass or dirt surface