Why is Death Valley so hot even at night?

Why so Hot? The depth and shape of Death Valley influence its summer temperatures. The valley is a long, narrow basin 282 feet (86 m) below sea level, yet is walled by high, steep mountain ranges. The clear, dry air and sparse plant cover allow sunlight to heat the desert surface.



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The valley is low in elevation and sits between two high mountain ranges. As the image shows, few plants grow in the valley, so the rocks and soil absorb the summer heat. That heat radiates back to the atmosphere at night, but doesn't get past the steep mountains.

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Death Valley is famous as the hottest place on earth and driest place in North America. The world record highest air temperature of 134°F (57°C) was recorded at Furnace Creek on July 10, 1913. Summer temperatures often top 120°F (49°C) in the shade with overnight lows dipping into the 90s°F (mid-30s°C.)

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Yes, It Even Can Snow NWS-Las Vegas official records say a trace of snow was recorded on three other dates, most recently January 4-5, 1974, and January 22, 1962. A prolonged cold snap in January of 1949 also deposited trace snow amounts in the valley, briefly covering the ground at Furnace Creek Ranch before melting.

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Lodging. Whether you are looking to stay in a luxury hotel or a simple tent cabin, Death Valley has a range of options available.

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While we don't recommend a hike at night in an area with obstacles such as rocks, a casual stroll at a place like Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes or Badwater Basin can be quite rewarding. Visit during a full moon (see NASA's Moon Phases webpage) for the best natural lighting.

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  1. Drink plenty of water: Drink at least one gallon (4 liters) of water per day to replace loss from sweat, more if you are active. ...
  2. Avoid hiking in the heat: Do not hike in the low elevations when temperatures are hot. ...
  3. Travel prepared to survive: Stay on paved roads in summer.


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Southern California hiker, 71, dies after trek in blistering Death Valley heat. DEATH VALLEY, Calif. (AP) — A Southern California outdoor enthusiast died Tuesday after collapsing following an hours-long hike in Death Valley National Park, the world's hottest place.

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Death Valley With seven deaths recorded due to environmental exposure, however, weather is a distant second to motor vehicle crashes, which accounted for 14 deaths over 10 years; many occurred on CA 190, which traverses the park. Also on the list: four deaths from falls and one from drowning.

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At 86 meters (282 feet) below sea level, Death Valley, California, is one of the hottest, driest places on the planet.

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List of Facts About Death Valley National Park
  • Death Valley Was Inhabited By Native Americans.
  • A Famous Explorer Visited Death Valley.
  • Death Valley got its name from a group of lost goldminers.
  • Death Valley Has Its Own Castle.
  • A Woman Suffragist Helped To Promote Death Valley.
  • Death Valley featured its own television series.


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