Just want to repeat the recent news about Death Valley recapturing the world record for being the hottest place on the planet. Here are some links from the old forum:
The record reading at Greenland Ranch, now known as Furnace Creek Ranch, occurred during a particularly hot spell from July 8-14, 1913. It was later described by George H. Wilson of the Weather Bureau as "probably the most remarkable authentic record of high shade temperatures ever made." During this seven day period the maximum temperature reached at least 127° F each day, with three days 130° F or above, and never fell below 85° F.
LINK: http://www.nps.gov/applications/digest/headline.cfm?type=Announcements&id=12742
GREAT VIDEO: http://www.wunderground.com/deadheat