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Climate type
Hot desert climate
BWh Köppen code BWhVery little rain and very hot — summer highs above 38°C (100°F). Cities with this climate include Las Vegas, Phoenix, Scottsdale.
Example cities with this climate
What this climate is like
Very little rain and very hot — summer highs above 38°C (100°F).
Temperatures
Summers are extreme — daytime highs routinely above 38°C (100°F), sometimes well above. Winters are mild and pleasant. Diurnal swings are large: hot days, cool nights.
Rainfall and seasons
Almost no rain. Annual totals are typically under 200 mm and many months may pass with no measurable precipitation. Humidity is low.
Where in the world
The Sahara, the Arabian Peninsula, the US Southwest, northwestern Mexico, central Australia, and the Atacama margins.
A typical year, in two recognisable cities — coolest and warmest month averages:
What it means for you
Whether you're thinking of moving, gardening or travelling.
🏠 Living here
Brutal summer heat shapes daily life — early mornings and evenings are the practical outdoor windows. Air conditioning is near-universal; sun protection and hydration are constants.
🌱 Gardening
Xeriscape only — native succulents, cactus, desert-adapted shrubs. Vegetable gardens need shade cloth and heavy irrigation; many crops simply won't survive summer.
✈️ Travel
Travel in the cool half of the year (Nov–Mar). Summer travel is uncomfortable and outdoor activity is limited to dawn and dusk.
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Popular cities with this climate
All 437 cities, across 57 countries — open a country to see its list.