Gandom Beryan: The Burning Wheat Fields of Iran
Introduction: Gandom Beryan, also known as the “Burning Wheat Fields” or “Reyg-e Sookhteh” (the Burnt Sands), is a vast and inhospitable plateau located in the northern part of the Shahdad area in the Kerman Province, Iran, along the western edge of the Lut Desert (Dasht-e Lut). Spanning an area of approximately 480 square kilometers, this region is famous for its extreme temperatures and rugged, volcanic landscape. Gandom Beryan is a true natural wonder, recognized for both its extreme climate and unique geological features. It holds the distinction of recording the highest surface temperature ever recorded on Earth, reaching a scorching 70.7°C (159.3°F).
Geographical Location: Situated in the heart of the Lut Desert, Gandom Beryan is a plateau that is surrounded by the vast emptiness of one of the hottest places on Earth. It is located approximately 100 kilometers north of the city of Kerman, and is accessible via the nearby town of Shahdad. The plateau is positioned between the surrounding mountain ranges and the desert plains, with its unique location contributing to its extreme climatic conditions.
The name “Gandom Beryan,” which translates to “Burning Wheat” in Persian, refers to the area’s resemblance to fields of wheat when viewed from a distance, although the “wheat” in question is the hot, barren ground covered in volcanic rock and dust. The region is one of the most arid and inhospitable environments on the planet, making it an interesting site for those fascinated by extreme climates and natural phenomena.
Geological Features:
- Volcanic Terrain: Gandom Beryan is known for its volcanic rock formations that dominate the landscape. These are remnants of ancient lava flows and volcanic activity that occurred millions of years ago, which have since solidified into the jagged rocks and plateaus that characterize the area. The dark-colored lava stones give the desert a menacing and striking appearance, especially under the intense heat of the sun.
- Sand Dunes and Salt Flats: In addition to the volcanic rocks, Gandom Beryan also features expansive salt flats and sandy dunes. The combination of these natural features makes the region not only a place of extraordinary heat but also one of aesthetic beauty. The salt flats, formed from the evaporation of ancient water bodies, create an otherworldly scene that stretches endlessly in every direction. The wind-swept dunes further enhance the area’s dramatic landscape, sculpted over millennia by the forces of nature.
- High Surface Temperatures: Gandom Beryan’s most famous feature is its extreme temperatures. In 2005, the highest ground temperature ever recorded on Earth was measured here—70.7°C (159.3°F). This incredible heat is due to several factors, including the plateau’s low elevation, its exposure to direct sunlight, and the surrounding mountains that act as heat traps. The intense heat of the region has led to its classification as one of the hottest places on the planet, alongside other deserts such as the Death Valley in the United States.
Climate and Weather:
Gandom Beryan’s climate is one of the harshest in the world, with scorching daytime temperatures that make it uninhabitable for most life forms. The lack of rainfall, coupled with the intense sun and heat, results in a hyper-arid environment. Rainfall in this region is extremely rare, and when