How hot does it get in the desert? A climate scientist explains its blazing heat

Death Valley set a record when the temperature reached 134 degrees Fahrenheit. Here’s why deserts can reach such scorching temperatures – and also very cold ones.

By: Shuang-Ye Wu, University of Dayton, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: July 20, 2026

Words: 1,369

Last Updated: 1 month ago

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By Shuang-Ye Wu, University of Dayton

Curious Kids is a series for children of all ages. If you have a question you’d like an expert to answer, send it to CuriousKidsUS@theconversation.com.

How hot does it get in the desert? – Henry, age 5, South Bend, Indiana

When you think of a desert, you probably imagine giant waves of sand dunes beneath a blazing Sun. You’d be picturing a hot desert, like …

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