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Death Valley Temperature

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Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 16 June 2026 by the DailyCity weather desk. Data from national met services via Open-Meteo.

Death Valley holds the highest reliably recorded air temperature on Earth: 56.7°C (134°F) at Furnace Creek in July 1913. Summer daytime temperatures routinely exceed 49°C (120°F), while winter nights can drop close to freezing. The park’s extreme heat is a result of its low elevation, desert location and surrounding mountain ranges.

How does Death Valley’s temperature change by month?

Monthly averages show a huge swing between seasons. July is the hottest month, with an average high of 47°C (116°F) and lows around 31°C (88°F). In contrast, December’s average high is 19°C (66°F) and the low can fall to 4°C (39°F). Spring and autumn offer more bearable conditions, with October highs near 35°C (95°F) and April highs around 33°C (91°F). Night-time temperatures in summer often stay above 30°C (86°F), providing little relief.

What are all-time records and seasonal extremes?

The 56.7°C record from 1913 remains under scrutiny, but modern measurements still hit 54.4°C (130°F) in 2020 and 2021. Winter temperatures can rise above 30°C (86°F) during the day, but frost is possible at night. The range between summer and winter averages is among the widest for any inhabited location on Earth.

Highest recorded56.7°C (134°F) – July 1913
Average summer high47°C (116°F) in July
Average winter low4°C (39°F) in December
Annual average temperature24.8°C (76.6°F)
Is Death Valley the hottest place on Earth?

Death Valley holds the official world record for highest air temperature, but some regions in Iran and the Sahara regularly reach similar highs. It is considered the hottest place on Earth based on consistent, long-term measurements.

What is the temperature in Death Valley during December?

December averages a daytime high of 19°C (66°F) and a night-time low of 4°C (39°F). It is one of the coolest months, but daytime temperatures can still climb above 25°C (77°F) on sunny afternoons.

Is it safe to visit Death Valley in summer?

Summer visits require extreme caution. Avoid hiking after 10am, carry at least 4 litres of water per person per day, and stay on paved roads. Over 90% of serious incidents occur in July and August.

For a look at UK conditions, visit our UK weather hub or check the 10-day forecast for any British city.