What are the coldest and warmest temperatures ever recorded in Antarctica?
Tania Miles, Chelmsford, Essex, England A: The warmest temperature ever officially recorded in Antarctica was 59 degrees Fahrenheit at New Zealand’s Vanda Station on Jan. 5,1974. The coldest was minus 129 F at the Russian Vostok Station on July 21, 1983. Vanda is in the Dry Valleys near the coast of McMurdo Sound with an elevation of 49 feet above sea level. Vostok is far inland and is at an elevation of 11,220 feet. The Vostok is the lowest temperature ever recorded at the Earth’s surface. You’ll find more inforamtion by going to our Understanding polar weather page.
