Death Valley, California, shattered its previous record for the hottest temperature on Friday. Furnace Creek hit an astonishing 127°F, making it one of the hottest places on Earth. If you’re feeling the heat, you’re not alone—many parts of the Southwest are experiencing scorching temperatures as well.
What’s cooking in Death Valley?
Death Valley is no stranger to extreme heat. Known for its arid landscape and dramatic temperatures, this desert region regularly tops the charts for the hottest places on the planet. The record-breaking 127°F is just the latest in a series of intense heatwaves that have been hitting the area.
“I was there once when it was 122,” said RVtravel.com publisher Chuck Woodbury. “Stepping out of an air-conditioned RV was like walking into a wall. I have never felt heat like that.”
What’s next for Death Valley?
The forecast for Death Valley in the coming days is looking just as intense. Temperatures are expected to remain in the high 120s, with predictions showing highs of around 128°F to 130°F in the next few days. That would be a new record high for the area. So, if you’re planning a trip to Death Valley, make sure to bring plenty of water, wear light clothing, and avoid strenuous activities during peak heat hours.
Sizzling Southwest: Other hot spots
Death Valley isn’t the only place feeling the heat. Other areas across the Southwest are also experiencing exceptionally high temperatures:
Phoenix, Arizona. Phoenix is known for its hot summers, but this heatwave is pushing temperatures to extreme levels. Phoenix hit 118°F, with forecasts predicting similar temperatures in the coming days.
Palm Springs, California. Palm Springs is another hot spot, with temperatures reaching 124°F. The forecast indicates that these high temperatures will persist, with the mercury hovering around 115°F to 118°F over the next few days.
Out East
The Eastern U.S. is also suffering from high temps along with high humidity. Not to be left out, the Midwest part of the country may see the effects of Hurricane Beryl, with storms and flooding predicted.
Staying safe in the heat
With temperatures soaring, it’s essential to stay safe and take precautions:
- Hydrate. Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Stay indoors. Try to stay in air-conditioned spaces as much as possible. (Here are some tips to keep your RV’s interior cool.)
- Dress appropriately. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and a hat.
- Avoid peak heat hours. Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler. Apply and reapply sunscreen frequently.
- Check on vulnerable individuals. If you are RVing with others, be sure to check on elderly family members, young children, and pets to ensure they are safe and cool.
- Follow the new interactive HeatRisk map to check temperatures in your current and upcoming RVing areas.
- Keep in mind that emergency rescue helicopters will not be in operation during the extreme heat in the Desert Southwest. Perhaps you should postpone that hike until better weather prevails.
The bigger picture
As we experience more frequent and intense heat waves, it’s crucial to stay informed and prepared. Whether you’re in Death Valley, Phoenix, Palm Springs, or anywhere else feeling the heat, be aware, take care, and stay cool!
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Thank you, Gail! 🙂 Thanks for the review of places and temperatures, and reminders to take care when in such warm temperatures! I bet Missouri is pretty hot these days, too! We had a nice coolish day here in East Tennessee with a high temperature of only 87° F. 🙂 It was in the lower 70s (°F) this morning and it felt “cool,” and almost “chilly” after our recent temperatures. 🤔😯 Thanks again, have a great day, safe travels, and safe stays! 🙂
They’ve since hit a record 129° in Death Valley with a death to a motorcyclist attributed to the heat there..
Hi, Bill. Yes, very sad. Here’s a link to the article we posted on the motorcyclist: Death Valley heat kills one, hospitalizes another Take care, and stay cool. 🙂 –Diane
Yes, I read that here on Monday’s news report. Gail’s article today referenced last Friday.
Yes. Gail had written this post last week but it got delayed being published so it was already out-of-date, unfortunately. Sorry, Bill and other readers (and Gail). Have a good evening/night. 🙂 –Diane
No matter, it was a good, well written article, and I enjoyed reading it.
Thank you, Bill.👍 😀 –Diane
It is, after all, Death Valley. This is not somewhere you should visit during the summer. We’ve been there several times in the non-summer months and it’s completely enjoyable.
Why is it no one mentions Bullhead City, AZ. If you watch the temps there, can be 5 to 10 degrees hotter than Vegas and Death Valley. 128 on car temp last week. Seen it as high as 131!
The official Death Valley record is 134 set back in 1913. Hottest place on Earth.
That was 111 years ago, before cars, trucks and other such “carbon emitting” sources. An inconvenient truth, greenies!
And thermometers in 1913 were not placed on the tarmacks of airports….. greenies!