On July 10, 1913, Death Valley in California etched its name into meteorological history by recording a sweltering 134°F (56.7°C). This temperature still holds the Guinness World Record as the highest ever reliably measured on Earth. Over a century later, this awe-inspiring yet intimidating milestone remains unbroken.
Nestled in the Mojave Desert, Death Valley owes its extreme heat to a unique combination of geographical and meteorological factors. Its below-sea-level elevation, combined with mountain ranges that block rain clouds, creates a natural oven that traps heat. In the summer, daytime highs routinely exceed 122°F (50°C), and even at night, the heat lingers, justifying the valley’s ominous name.
The record-breaking heat wave in July 1913 stunned the global meteorological community. For a time, El Azizia in Libya was thought to have eclipsed this record with a 1922 reading of 136.4°F (58°C). However, after nearly 90 years, that record was officially invalidated due to flawed observation methods, restoring Death Valley’s 134°F mark as the highest reliably documented temperature.
Still, the validity of the 1913 Death Valley reading remains a topic of debate. Some experts have questioned the accuracy of the instruments used at the time, citing possible distortions caused by sandstorms or unusual weather conditions. Nevertheless, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) continues to officially recognize the 1913 measurement as the planet’s highest recorded temperature.
In recent years, climate change has refocused attention on Death Valley. As record-breaking heat events become more frequent globally, the valley has come dangerously close to its historic benchmark, recording temperatures as high as 129.9°F (54.4°C). Despite the punishing heat, the area remains a magnet for tourists drawn by the challenge and thrill of experiencing Earth’s most extreme environment.
Death Valley’s 134°F milestone is more than just a number. It’s a symbol of Earth’s climatic extremes — and a sobering reminder of the growing risks posed by global warming.