Decertifying a world record temperature means officially invalidating the record due to reasons such as incorrect measurement, issues with the measurement equipment, or new evidence suggesting the data was not accurate. This process ensures that the record books reflect the most accurate and verifiable information.
The 134°F temperature record, purportedly set in Furnace Creek, Death Valley in 1913, was decertified after thorough investigation by meteorological experts. They found inconsistencies and potential errors in the temperature recording process of that time, which cast doubt on the accuracy of this record.
Decertifying a historic temperature record like the 134°F at Furnace Creek has several implications. It alters the historical climatological data and can affect climate model projections and our understanding of historical weather patterns. Additionally, it impacts the tourism and local history of the area previously known for this record.
The accuracy of historical temperature records is evaluated through a combination of archival research, examination of the original recording equipment and methods, and comparison with other nearby weather stations. Meteorologists and historians look for consistency in recorded data and scrutinize the conditions under which the measurements were taken.
Following the decertification of the 134°F record at Furnace Creek, the highest verified air temperature is 129.9°F (54.4°C), recorded at both Kuwait on July 21, 2016, and Pakistan on May 28, 2017. These records are currently recognized by the World Meteorological Organization as the highest verified air temperatures on Earth.