Known for its diverse climates and stunning landscapes, Africa also holds the title of the hottest continent on Earth. The record for the highest temperature ever recorded was set in the town of Al Aziziyah, Libya, where the mercury soared to an astonishing 56.7°C (134°F) on September 13, 1922. This scorching temperature remains one of the most extreme weather records in history.
Located in the northwestern part of Libya, Al Aziziyah is a small town that sits on the edge of the Sahara Desert, one of the largest and hottest deserts in the world. The town’s record-setting temperature was documented by an Italian military base stationed there at the time, making it a landmark in meteorological history.
This record-breaking event highlighted the intense and often unforgiving heat that can be experienced in Africa, particularly in the vast desert regions that stretch across the northern part of the continent. The Sahara Desert, covering approximately 9.2 million square kilometers, is a place where temperatures regularly exceed 40°C (104°F), but the 1922 record stands out as an extraordinary peak.
While modern measurements have introduced new standards for recording temperatures, and there have been debates over the accuracy of historical records, the Al Aziziyah temperature remains an official benchmark in the history of meteorology.
Africa’s extreme temperatures are not only a marvel of natural phenomena but also serve as a reminder of the continent’s climatic diversity. From the arid deserts of the north to the tropical rainforests of Central Africa, and the temperate regions of the south, Africa’s weather patterns are as varied as its cultures and landscapes.
Today, the legacy of Al Aziziyah’s record-setting heat continues to draw the attention of climate scientists and enthusiasts alike, illustrating the extraordinary extremes that can occur on our planet. As global temperatures rise, the record serves as a stark reminder of the power and unpredictability of nature.