Death Valley has recorded some of the hottest air temperatures ever measured on Earth.

The longer version

Air temperature readings depend heavily on where the thermometer sits. A sheltered instrument in a deep, sun exposed basin will record far higher values than one on open ground. Valleys trap heat because surrounding ranges block cooler air from flowing in, and the dry, dark surface radiates warmth back upward.

Low elevation also raises the figure, since air compresses and warms as it sinks. Clear skies allow full sun by day and rapid cooling by night. Ground surface readings there run far above the air figures, which is why official numbers refer to the air itself.

Where this entry sits

These facts wander across maps, borders, deserts, rivers, mountains, and the extreme corners of the natural world. Each one is short and self-contained, offering a small surprise about places you may never visit rather than anything you actually need. The full list sits on the Geography page, where every entry is listed in order.