The Hottest Days in Palm Springs History
The hottest temperature ever recorded in Palm Springs is 124°F.
Yes, it gets hot in :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}. Very hot. According to official records, Palm Springs set a new all-time heat record in July 2024, surpassing the long-standing 123°F mark.
The Hottest Temperature Ever Recorded in Palm Springs
124°F — July 5, 2024
The current record for the hottest temperature ever recorded in Palm Springs is 124 degrees, which occurred on July 5, 2024. This officially broke the previous all-time high of 123°F that had stood for decades.
As with all official temperature records, this reading was taken in the shade under National Weather Service standards. Also, as a brief aside, I can tell you as someone who was in Palm Springs on this day. It was hot. It was so very, very hot.
Previous Record High Temperatures in Palm Springs
123°F — Five Occasions
Before 2024, the highest recorded temperature in Palm Springs was 123°F. That temperature was reached on the following dates:
- September 6, 2020
- July 29, 1995
- July 28, 1995
- August 1, 1993
- July 10, 1979
122°F — Multiple Occasions
The second-highest temperature, 122°F, has been recorded several times, including during the extreme summer heat waves of the 2010s:
- July 7, 2017
- June 24, 2017
- June 25, 2017
- June 20, 2016
- June 20, 2017
- June 29, 2013
- July 14, 2003
- August 24, 1985
- July 31, 1957
121°F — Two Occasions
- July 17, 2005
- June 29, 1994
How Hot It Gets in Thermal
If Palm Springs feels extreme, the nearby community of :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}, located east of Palm Springs, routinely experiences even higher temperatures due to its lower elevation and inland location.
126°F — The Record High in Thermal
- July 29, 1995
Yes, that temperature is real. And no, nothing good happens at 126 degrees.
123°F — Two Occasions
- July 28, 1995
- August 1, 1993
122°F — Six Occasions
- June 20, 2017
- July 10, 1979
- June 29, 2013
- July 14, 2003
- August 24, 1985
- July 31, 1957
121°F — Three Occasions
- June 20, 2016
- July 17, 2005
- June 29, 1994
Why Palm Springs Gets So Hot
Palm Springs’ extreme heat is driven by its desert climate, low elevation, surrounding mountain ranges, and persistent summer high-pressure systems. These conditions trap heat in the valley and significantly limit overnight cooling.
Despite the temperatures, daily life largely continues as normal, though locals learn quickly to plan around the heat.
Bottom Line
Palm Springs now holds an official all-time high temperature of 124°F, recorded in July 2024. While temperatures above 120°F are rare, extreme heat events are part of the region’s climate history.
If you’re visiting in summer, hydration, shade, and common sense are mandatory.
FAQ
What is the hottest temperature ever recorded in Palm Springs?
The hottest temperature ever recorded in Palm Springs is 124°F, recorded on July 5, 2024.
Did Palm Springs ever reach 128°F?
No. Despite occasional rumors and headlines, 128°F has never been officially recorded in Palm Springs.
Why does Thermal get hotter than Palm Springs?
Thermal sits at a lower elevation and farther inland, allowing temperatures to rise higher during extreme heat events.
Related: The Coldest Days in Palm Springs History
This page was last updated in 2025 to reflect the 124°F record set in July 2024.
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Written by : Casey Dolan
Casey is the founder of Cactus Hugs and also works with local businesses on their websites and digital marketing. Learn more (and hire!) him here. Please, send him your news tips and your whiskey!