The biggest factor behind Death Valley's extreme heat is its elevation. ... That really allows for the solar radiation to heat up the air, and really dry it out. The valley is narrow, trapping any air from circulating in or out. There's also little vegetation to absorb the sun's rays, and there's a desert nearby.

Why are valleys so hot?

Why so Hot? The depth and shape of Death Valley influence its summer temperatures. The valley is a long, narrow basin 282 feet (86 m) below sea level, yet is walled by high, steep mountain ranges. ... These moving masses of super heated air blow through the valley, creating extreme high temperatures.

Why are places below sea level so hot?

1) Air temperature is a function of air pressure.At low elevations, air pressure is really high, because there is a LOT of atmosphere above you. ... For most places in the western US, the temperature drops by ~3.5 degrees with every 1000 foot gain in elevation. Answer 3: The sea level is warmer, because hot water rises!