California Records Both the Hottest and Coldest Temperatures in the Nation as Readings Swing From 22 Degrees to 106 Degrees
California – California has once again shown just how extreme its weather can be. Both the hottest and coldest temperatures in the United States were recorded in the Golden State today, with readings ranging from a frosty 22 degrees in the north to a scorching 106 degrees in the southern deserts.
Coldest Reading in the Nation: 22 Degrees in Northern California
The coldest temperature in the country was recorded east-southeast of Old Station, California, where the thermometer dropped to just 22 degrees. Old Station sits in the mountains of Northern California, northeast of Redding and near Lassen Volcanic National Park. The area’s high elevation and clear skies allowed temperatures to plunge well below freezing overnight, delivering a wintry chill even though it is still September.
Hottest Reading in the Nation: 106 Degrees in Two Desert Spots
At the other end of the scale, California also recorded the hottest temperature in the nation, with 106 degrees reported in two locations. One of those readings came from east of North Shore, California, near the Salton Sea in the Coachella Valley region, not far from Indio. The other came from southwest of Tecopa, California, in the remote desert of eastern California near the Nevada border and the Death Valley region.
An 84-Degree Difference in One State
The gap between the coldest and hottest readings reached an incredible 84 degrees, all within the same state on the same day. This kind of swing is possible in California because of its huge range of landscapes. High mountain valleys in the north can cool off quickly under clear skies, while low-lying desert basins in the south trap heat and continue to bake even as fall begins.
What It Means for Residents
For people in Northern California’s higher elevations, the cold morning is a clear sign that winter-like nights are starting to arrive. Residents should protect sensitive plants, bring pets indoors overnight, and be ready for frosty windshields in the morning.
In the southern deserts, the heat is still a serious concern. Anyone spending time outdoors should drink plenty of water, limit activity during the hottest part of the day, and never leave children or pets inside parked vehicles.
A Classic California Contrast
Days like this highlight why California is one of the most diverse states in the country when it comes to weather. From frosty mountain mornings to blazing desert afternoons, the state can experience nearly every season at once.
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