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What states hold the records for highest... | Almanac.com

What states hold the records for highest...

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What states hold the records for highest and lowest temperatures?
Answer
This question will require a split answer. As you are well aware, the United States has two detached states, Alaska and Hawaii. So, first of all, let’s consider the contiguous, or continental, United States. In this area, the highest temperature was 134 degrees Fahrenheit at Greenland Ranch, California, on July 10, 1913. That’s hot! The lowest temperature was -69.7 degrees Fahrenheit at Rogers Pass, Montana, on January 20, 1954. That’s cold!

One might think that Hawaii would have very warm temperatures, and it does. However, because Hawaii enjoys a maritime climate, the temperature is fairly constant throughout the year. In short, Hawaii very seldom has temperature extremes.

Not so for our northernmost state, Alaska. Not only is Alaska our largest state, but it also holds the record for our coldest temperature: -79.8 degrees Fahrenheit at Prospect Creek on January 23, 1971. Now that’s really cold!