The sun is the main source of energy for the Earth, but its intensity is not evenly distributed across the planet. While cities with temperate climates, such as San Diego and Sydney, rarely record temperatures above 26.6°C, other regions routinely experience extreme heat. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), temperatures above 35°C are considered extreme. Yet there are places – even places that have been inhabited for thousands of years – that are learning to live with this condition.

In the Lute Desert, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, surface temperatures of up to 70.7°C have been recorded, the highest on Earth, according to NASA. The most extreme locations may be uninhabited, but in many other parts of the world, people have lived for centuries in very high temperatures that test the limits of human endurance.

Athens, Greece – One of the hottest inhabited cities

According to worldatlas, Athens, with a history of more than 3,400 years and a Mediterranean climate, is now considered one of the hottest inhabited cities on the planet. The hot, dry summer months often bring temperatures well above 37.8°C. By 2021, the Greek capital held the record for the highest temperature in Europe, with 48°C recorded in 1977, before it was broken in Sicily in 2021 with 48.8°C.

As the website says, a lack of greenery, dense building and a large population contribute to the heat burden. In addition, the city is visited by around 10 million tourists a year, exacerbating the effect. Nevertheless, the Saronic Sea moderates temperatures in the southern suburbs, while the meltemi often provides relief.

South, California – Temperatures up to 49.4°C

In the desert Coachella Valley, the city of Indio, with a population of 89,000, records temperatures as high as 49.4°C, and for months, the thermometer exceeds 37.8°C. Despite the heat, it remains a popular destination, thanks in part to famous festivals like Coachella.

Phoenix, Arizona – The hottest city in the US

Located in the Sonoran Desert belt, Phoenix often becomes almost unlivable in the summer months, with consecutive days above 43°C. In 2023, a series of 31 days with temperatures above 43.4°C were recorded, while 2024 saw 113 consecutive days with temperatures above 37.8°C. Nevertheless, the city is home to over 1.5 million residents.

Jizan, Saudi Arabia – Heat above 30°C all year round

At the southwestern tip of Saudi Arabia, Jizan experiences temperatures that rarely drop below 22°C, even in winter. In summer, the heat often exceeds 35°C, while humidity and sandstorms are common.

Sri Ganganagar, India – Temperatures up to 48.9°C

In Rajasthan, the city of Sri Ganganagar is recording extreme temperatures, with the hottest days reaching 48.9°C. Despite the difficulties, the region has been transformed into a rural centre thanks to the Indira Gandhi Canal.

Doha, Qatar – Highs above 45°C

Doha, with its desert climate, lives almost permanently in high temperatures. Since May, the mercury has been above 37.8°C, with the hottest days exceeding 45°C. Nevertheless, the city remains a tourist and economic centre with over a million inhabitants.

Darwin, Australia – Heat and humidity with little variation

Darwin, a city of 139,000 people, has a tropical savannah climate with temperatures rarely falling below 30°C (86°F). The wet season months combine high temperatures, intense humidity and frequent storms.