Turpan: Hottest City Anecdotes

Turpan, China is often cited as the hottest city in the world, with temperatures that regularly soar above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. In this scorching desert city, the heat can be so intense that it’s not uncommon for cars to melt in the sun and for the pavement to smoke underfoot.

For those who live in Turpan, the heat is a way of life. They’ve developed coping mechanisms over the years, like taking midday naps to avoid the hottest part of the day and wearing loose-fitting, breathable clothing.

But for visitors to the city, the heat can be overwhelming. Many tourists report feeling lightheaded and dehydrated after just a few minutes in the sun. And the anecdotes about the extreme heat in Turpan are truly staggering.

One popular story involves a man who left a plastic water bottle in his car for just a few hours. When he returned, the water bottle had melted and fused to the dashboard of his car. Another tourist reported that his camera stopped working after just a few minutes in the sun, with the heat causing the battery to overheat and malfunction.

The heat in Turpan can also be dangerous for those who aren’t prepared. In 2008, a group of tourists hiking in the nearby mountains were caught off guard by the extreme temperatures. Six of the hikers died from heat exhaustion, and the tragedy served as a stark reminder of just how unforgiving the climate can be in this part of the world.

Despite the challenges posed by the heat, Turpan is still a popular destination for tourists. The city is home to many historical and cultural sites, including the ruins of the ancient city of Jiaohe and the Karez irrigation system, which has been used for centuries to bring water to the desert.

For those planning a visit to Turpan, it’s important to come prepared. Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, and try to plan your activities around the hottest part of the day. And if you do happen to see a smoking patch of pavement or a melted water bottle, don’t be too surprised – in Turpan, the heat can truly do some incredible things.