When it comes to the hottest states in the United States, there are a few that stand out above the rest. From the scorching deserts of Arizona to the balmy beaches of Florida, these states have all earned the title of being the hottest in the nation. But what makes them so hot, and what are some of the factors that contribute to their extreme temperatures? Read on to find out more about the hottest states in the U.S.
Arizona
Arizona is one of the hottest states in the country, and it is no wonder why. With temperatures in the summer reaching over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, the desert heat is oppressive and unrelenting. This is largely due to the lack of humidity in the air, as Arizona is a desert state. The lack of water vapor in the air helps to trap heat and keep temperatures higher than in other states.
Nevada
Nevada is another desert state, and it is no surprise that it is also one of the hottest states in the nation. Nevada, much like Arizona, experiences extreme heat in the summertime due to the lack of water vapor in the air. Additionally, the state is located in close proximity to Death Valley, a region known for its extreme temperatures.
Texas
Texas is known for its hot summer temperatures, and the Lone Star state certainly lives up to its name. With temperatures reaching over 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer, Texas can be a hot and uncomfortable place to be. Additionally, the extreme humidity in the air helps to trap heat and make the temperatures even hotter.
Florida
Florida is another state that often experiences high temperatures, particularly in the summertime. This is largely due to the state’s location on the Gulf of Mexico. The warm air from the gulf helps to create humid and hot temperatures in the summer. Additionally, the high number of sunny days in the state helps to further increase the temperature.
California
California is another state known for its hot temperatures in the summertime. With temperatures reaching into the triple digits, California can be a very uncomfortable place to be in the summer. Additionally, the state’s location on the Pacific Ocean helps to increase the humidity in the air, making temperatures feel even hotter.
What Causes Hot Temperatures?
There are many factors that contribute to the hot temperatures found in these states. Some of these include:
Lack of Humidity
The lack of humidity in the air can lead to higher temperatures in states such as Arizona and Nevada. The lack of water vapor in the air helps to trap heat and keep temperatures higher than in other states.
Passive Heat Gain
Passive heat gain is when the sun’s rays are absorbed by buildings and objects, and then released back into the air. This can cause temperatures to rise in states such as Texas and Florida.
Proximity to the Ocean/Gulf of Mexico
The proximity to the ocean or Gulf of Mexico can cause temperatures to rise. This is because the warm air from the ocean helps to create humid and hot temperatures in the summer.
Number of Sunny Days
The number of sunny days in a state can have an effect on the temperature. The more sunny days, the hotter the temperatures can get. This is the case in states such as California and Florida.