Travelling is all about experiencing new places and cultures, but some destinations come with weather that can test even the most seasoned traveller. Whether it’s extreme heat, bone-chilling cold, or relentless humidity, these are 19 places in the world with the most unbearable weather.
Death Valley, USA
The National Park Service reports that “steady drought and record summer heat make Death Valley a land of extremes.” It holds the record for the highest temperature ever recorded on Earth. This desert valley is notorious for its blistering heat, often soaring above 49°C during the summer months. The relentless sun beats down on the arid landscape, making it feel like an oven.
Oymyakon, Russia
If you think you can handle cold weather, a trip to Oymyakon, Russia, will make you rethink that. Known as the coldest inhabited place on the planet, winter temperatures here can plummet to a bone-chilling -50°C or lower. The village is buried under snow and ice for most of the year, with daylight lasting just a few hours during the peak of winter.
Dhahran, Saudi Arabia
Dhahran is a city in Saudi Arabia that regularly experiences some of the hottest temperatures in the world. Summers are scorching, with the temperature often climbing above 45°C. The combination of extreme heat and high humidity levels makes it feel even hotter, creating an oppressive atmosphere.
Cherrapunji, India
Located in the northeastern state of Meghalaya in India, Cherrapunji is famous for its heavy rainfall. It holds the record for the most annual rainfall in the world, with torrential downpours occurring almost daily during the monsoon season. The relentless rain can also cause severe flooding and landslides.
Utqiagvik, Alaska
Barrow, recently renamed Utqiagvik, is the northernmost city in the USA, and its weather can be truly unforgiving. Located above the Arctic Circle, Utqiagvik experiences extreme cold and long, dark winters. The sun doesn’t rise for about two months during the winter, plunging the city into a polar night.
Bangkok, Thailand
In Bangkok, you can expect a mix of sweltering heat and high humidity that can make any outdoor activity feel exhausting. The city’s tropical climate means it’s hot and humid year-round, with temperatures often exceeding 32°C. The monsoon season brings heavy rains and frequent flooding, adding to the discomfort.
Yuma, USA
Yuma, Arizona, is one of the hottest and sunniest places in the United States. With over 4,000 hours of sunshine a year, it’s no wonder Yuma is considered one of the most extreme weather destinations. The dry heat can be overwhelming, and shade is a precious commodity.
Mount Washington, USA
Mount Washington in New Hampshire is infamous for having some of the world’s most unpredictable and severe weather. The mountain is known for its fierce winds, with gusts reaching over 230 mph, and frigid temperatures that can drop below -40°C. The combination of high winds, snow, and ice makes it a treacherous environment for hikers and climbers.
Kuwait City, Kuwait
Kuwait City experiences some of the most extreme heat in the Middle East, with blisteringly hot summers. Air conditioning is a necessity, and outdoor activities are often limited to early mornings or late evenings. Despite the extreme weather, Kuwait City is a thriving metropolis with a rich cultural heritage and modern attractions.
Fairbanks, USA
Fairbanks, Alaska, is known for its extreme temperature variations; winters are brutally cold, while summers can be surprisingly warm. The long winter nights and short summer days create a stark contrast, and the city’s remote location adds to the feeling of isolation.
Timbuktu, Mali
Located in the Sahara Desert of Mali, Timbuktu is renowned for its extreme heat and arid conditions. Daytime temperatures can soar above 43°C, and the relentless sun beats down on the sandy landscape. The lack of rainfall and sparse vegetation make it a challenging environment to endure.
Singapore
The weather in Singapore is characterised by high humidity and consistent temperatures of around 31°C all year round. The tropical climate means frequent rain showers and a sticky, muggy atmosphere. The combination of heat and humidity can make it feel much hotter than it is, and staying hydrated is essential.
Norilsk, Russia
Norilsk, Russia, is one of the coldest and most polluted cities in the world. Thanks to its position above the Arctic Circle, it experiences extremely harsh winters and long periods of darkness. The city’s heavy industrial activity contributes to severe air pollution, making the already harsh living conditions even more challenging.
Phoenix, USA
Known for its scorching summers and relentless sun, temperatures in Phoenix regularly soar above 38°C and can even exceed 49°C during heatwaves. The dry desert heat can be overwhelming, making outdoor activities difficult during the peak summer months.
Iquitos, Peru
Found in the heart of the Amazon Rainforest in Peru, Iquitos has a reputation for its severe weather. The city is surrounded by dense jungle, and the tropical climate brings frequent rain showers and high humidity levels. The constant moisture in the air can be stifling, but the unique wildlife and lush rainforest environment make Iquitos a fascinating destination nonetheless.
Baghdad, Iraq
Baghdad, the capital of Iraq, endures extremely hot summers, with temperatures pushing intense heat, which is accompanied by dust storms that reduce visibility and create challenging living conditions. The arid climate and lack of greenery add to the overall discomfort.
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
The capital of Mongolia is subject to extreme temperature fluctuations. Winters are bitterly cold, with temperatures dropping as low as -40°C, while summers can be relatively warm, reaching up to 27°C. The city’s high altitude and continental climate contribute to the harsh weather conditions in Ulaanbaatar.
Muscat, Oman
Muscat, the capital of Oman, experiences scorching heat and high humidity, particularly during summer. Temperatures can soar, and the coastal location means the city also experiences occasional cyclones and heavy rainfall. Despite the challenging weather, it’s still a popular destination for travellers seeking a unique experience.
Alice Springs, Australia
And finally, Alice Springs, located in the heart of Australia, is known for yet more unbearable weather. It suffers from extreme heat and arid conditions, with brutally hot summers. The desert environment means there is little shade, and the dry heat can be exhausting. Despite the harsh weather, Alice Springs is a gateway to some of Australia’s most iconic natural landmarks, including Uluru and the MacDonnell Ranges.
