While pinpointing the single "hottest" city in Saudi Arabia is complex due to fluctuating temperatures and data availability, Jeddah recorded a temperature of 52°C (125.6°F) on June 22, 2010, making it a strong contender for one of the hottest temperatures ever recorded in the region.
Understanding "Hottest"
It's important to clarify what "hottest" means. Are we talking about:
- Highest Recorded Temperature: The single highest temperature ever measured.
- Average Summer Temperature: The average temperature during the hottest months (June-August).
- Overall Heat Index: A combination of temperature and humidity, reflecting how hot it feels.
Without specifying which definition to use, focusing on the record high temperature is the most direct approach based on the provided context.
Jeddah's Record
The BBC Science Focus Magazine cites Jeddah as recording 52°C (125.6°F) on June 22, 2010. This temperature surpassed a previously recorded temperature of 51°C in Al-Asha, making Jeddah a location that has experienced extreme heat. However, this is a single data point.
Other Hot Cities in Saudi Arabia
While Jeddah holds a record, other cities in Saudi Arabia also experience scorching temperatures:
- Riyadh: The capital city regularly sees temperatures exceeding 45°C (113°F) during the summer months.
- Dammam: Located on the Persian Gulf, Dammam experiences high humidity in addition to high temperatures, making the heat feel even more intense.
- Al-Asha: As mentioned previously, Al-Asha also experiences extremely high temperatures.
Conclusion
Based on available data and focusing on the highest recorded temperature, Jeddah can be considered one of the hottest cities in Saudi Arabia, having reached 52°C (125.6°F). Other cities like Riyadh, Dammam, and Al-Asha also endure extreme heat, especially during the summer.
