Our planet is home to an incredible range of climates, from the searing heat of the desert to the freezing cold of the Arctic. This article takes you on a journey through the most extreme climates on Earth, exploring the hottest, coldest, wettest, driest cities, and more. Let’s dive into the diverse and fascinating climates that define these unique places.

Ahvaz is frequently cited as the hottest city on Earth, with summer temperatures often soaring above 120°F (49°C). Located in southwestern Iran, Ahvaz experiences scorching heat due to its low elevation and proximity to the desert.

Yakutsk, situated in the heart of Siberia, holds the title of the coldest city on Earth. In winter, temperatures can plummet to a bone-chilling -90°F (-68°C). Despite its frigid climate, Yakutsk is home to more than 300,000 residents adapting to the harsh conditions.

Mawsynram, a village in the Indian state of Meghalaya, holds the record for being the wettest place on Earth. This region receives an average annual rainfall of 467 inches (11,871 mm), mainly due to its location on the windward side of the Khasi Hills, which forces moist air upwards, resulting in heavy rainfall.

Arica, located in northern Chile, is the driest city in the world. With an average annual rainfall of just 0.03 inches (0.76 mm), Arica is nestled between the Atacama Desert and the Pacific Ocean, creating a unique climate where rain is extremely rare.

Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, is notorious for its extreme humidity. With an average relative humidity of 80%, the city’s tropical climate and proximity to the equator make it a consistently muggy destination.

Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, is known as the windiest city in the world. Due to its location on the Cook Strait, the city experiences strong winds funneled through the narrow gap between the North and South Islands, with average wind speeds of 16.6 mph (26.7 km/h).

Traveling to any of these destinations. Pack accordingly!

La Rinconada, a city in the Peruvian Andes, holds the title of the highest city in the world at 16,700 feet (5,100 meters) above sea level. The thin air and extreme altitude make living conditions challenging, but the city’s proximity to gold mines continues to draw residents.

Jericho, one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world, is also the lowest city on Earth, sitting at 846 feet (258 meters) below sea level. Located in the Jordan Valley, Jericho’s unique geographical position contributes to its hot, dry climate.

Yuma, a city in southwestern Arizona, boasts the title of the sunniest city in the world. With over 4,000 hours of sunshine annually, Yuma’s residents enjoy clear skies and abundant sunlight year-round.

Tórshavn, the capital of the Faroe Islands, is the cloudiest city on Earth. With only 840 hours of sunshine per year, Tórshavn experiences a cool maritime climate with frequent cloud cover, fog, and overcast skies. Its location in the North Atlantic Ocean results in damp and often unpredictable weather.

From the sweltering heat of Ahvaz to the constant cloud cover of Tórshavn, the world’s most extreme climates demonstrate the incredible diversity of our planet. Each of these cities offers a unique environment and a glimpse into the resilience and adaptability of the human spirit. Whether you’re drawn to the arid landscapes of Arica or the windy streets of Wellington, these destinations are sure to leave you in awe of the power and beauty of nature.