Death Valley, Calif., famous for being the hottest place on earth, just got even hotter.
According to the National Weather Service, the valley (located in the northern Mojave Desert) reached a record-making temperature of 130 degrees Fahrenheit Friday, matching a previous high reached last August.
Previously, the hottest temperatures recorded on earth were 134 degrees in Death Valley more than 100 years ago in 1913 and a 131-degree reading in Kebili, Tunisia in 1931, said the Washington Post. However, the outlet said world weather extremes expert Christopher Burt questions both results.
As the earlier readings are in question, the recent 130-degree readings could become the highest temperatures confirmed on Earth. As of Friday, the temperature reading from last year was still being reviewed by the World Meteorological Organization.
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Typical summer temperatures in Death Valley can top 120-degrees during the day and fall into the low 90s at night, according to the National Park Service. Other seasons in the valley can be “very pleasant” said the service.
However, there is an average of 2-in. of rainfall annually, with occasional flash floods and the area is known as the driest in the U.S.
Dry conditions in the area result from four mountain ranges separating the valley from the Pacific Ocean, which creates conditions that prevent moisture from falling there. Death Valley’s depth ad shape contribute to its record-setting heat.
“The clear, dry air and sparse plant cover allow sunlight to heat the desert surface. Heat radiates back from the rocks and soil, then becomes trapped in the valley's depths,” explained the National Park Service.
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A severe summer heat warning is in effect in Death Valley and anyone in the area should drink plenty of water, avoid hiking in the heat and be careful not to break down when driving. Though temperatures were down to 111 degrees around 9 a.m. Saturday, the National Weather Service warning will be in effect through 8 p.m. July 12.
Temperatures are expected to reach 130 degrees again Saturday and Sunday, according to the National Weather Service. These extra-high temperatures in the valley come with recent heat waves along the West coast, impacting areas from British Columbia to California.
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