As climate change continues to influence global weather patterns, extreme temperatures are becoming more common. Some cities around the world are already living examples of what it means to endure scorching heat year-round. These cities not only experience high daytime temperatures but often see minimal relief even at night. hottest cities in the world—places where heat is a constant companion.
1. Kuwait City, Kuwait
Kuwait has become famous for recording some of the highest temperatures ever documented on Earth. One of the highest temperatures ever officially recorded was 54°C (129.2°F) in 2016, which occurred in Mitribah, Kuwait, which is just outside Kuwait City.
- Average summer temperature: 45–50°C (113–122°F)
- Climate: Desert climate, hot and dry
- Challenges: Water scarcity, energy demands, and risk of heatstroke
2. Ahvaz, Iran
Ahvaz, located in southwestern Iran, regularly ranks among the hottest cities in the world. It is also plagued with poor air quality, making living conditions extremely harsh.
- Record high: 54°C (129.2°F) in July 2017
- Average summer temperature: 46°C (114.8°F)
- Notable: Consistently ranks high for heat and pollution combined
3. Basra, Iraq
Basra is another Middle Eastern city battling extreme heat. High humidity levels from the Shatt al-Arab river make the heat feel even more suffocating.
- Record high: 53.9°C (129°F)
- Average summer temperature: 45–49°C (113–120.2°F)
- Impact: Power outages and heat-related health emergencies are common
4. Death Valley (Furnace Creek), USA
While not a city, Furnace Creek in Death Valley, California, holds the record for the hottest temperature ever recorded on Earth—56.7°C (134°F) in 1913.
- Notable: Part of a national park
- Tourism: Despite the heat, tourists visit to experience extreme conditions
5. Jazan City, Saudi Arabia
Located along the Red Sea, Jazan combines extreme heat with very high humidity, creating a “feels like” temperature that can exceed 60°C (140°F).
- Average summer temperature: 40–45°C (104–113°F)
- Humidity: Often over 70%, intensifying discomfort
6. Doha, Qatar
With a fast-growing population and modern infrastructure, Doha faces a unique challenge of balancing urbanization and extreme heat.
- Average summer temperature: 45°C (113°F)
- Urban heat island effect: Skyscrapers and construction trap more heat
7. Phoenix, Arizona, USA
Phoenix is the hottest major city in the United States and is known for its extended heatwaves.
- Average summer temperature: 43°C (109.4°F)
- Record high: 48.9°C (120°F)
- Concern: Rising nighttime temperatures and heat-related deaths
8. Delhi, India
Delhi experiences sweltering heat waves in May and June, made worse by its pollution and population density.
- Average summer temperature: 40–45°C (104–113°F)
- Recent record: Over 49°C (120.2°F) in 2024
- Effect: Heat waves cause school closures and infrastructure stress
9. Timbuktu, Mali
This historic city near the Sahara Desert faces intense desert heat with minimal vegetation to offer shade or cooling.
- Average temperature: 41°C (105.8°F)
- Conditions: Dry, dusty, and increasingly vulnerable to desertification
10. Jacobabad, Pakistan
Jacobabad is often cited as one of the only cities where humans can’t survive outdoors for long during peak summer.
- Wet-bulb temperatures: Over 35°C (95°F), which is deadly for humans
- Summer highs: 49–52°C (120–125.6°F)
- Extreme: Heat and humidity make it a dangerous place to live without cooling systems
Final Thoughts
While humans are incredibly adaptable, the growing number of cities experiencing life-threatening temperatures is a sign of what may come if climate action is not taken seriously. The hottest cities in the world are not only a warning but also a testament to human resilience in the face of extreme environmental stress.
