weather

Conditions in the Mojave

Hotter than the Great Basin Desert on its northern boundary, the Mojave Desert is the driest region in the United States. Long-term records (Indian Springs, Nevada) averages 2.9 inches (74mm) of precipitation a year. Temperatures here range from 119o F (48oC) in summer to -2o F (-19oC) in winter. Whether it is blazing or freezing, one can count on the wind blowing. These conditions present significant challenges for plants and animals living in this area. The impact of global change on the organisms precariously perched in this extreme ecosystem is a key area of study at NDFF.

Monitoring conditions

As part of the CO2 control mechanism, temperature, wind, and solar radiation are monitored every minute. This data is then hourly averaged over the site and used in the monthly averages presented here. Rainfall is collected at every event and soil moisture measurements are taken monthly.

Current Conditions