Needles, a small town of 5,200 residents on the California border along Route 66, now holds the nation’s record for the hottest monthly average temperature.

In July, Needles experienced an average temperature of 103.2 degrees, eclipsing Phoenix’s previous record of 102.7 degrees from last July, according to the Arizona State Climate Office.

In an X post, the Arizona State Climate Office acknowledged the new record set by Needles. The post also welcomed Palm Springs and Blythe into the group of cities with average temperatures in the triple digits for an entire month.

Mayor Jan Jernigan was unsurprised by the record, stating, “We probably did (beat the record), quite easily.”

Heat is ingrained in the town’s culture. During City Council meetings, guests are offered Red Hots candy, symbolizing the town’s extreme temperatures.

To cope with the heat, Needles schedules city events early in the morning. A recent food distribution event began at 5 a.m. and ended by 8 a.m. to avoid peak heat.

The town, referenced in “Peanuts” comics as the home of Snoopy’s brother Spike, still attracts tourists to its three beaches on the Colorado River, said City Manager Patrick Martinez. The city has received $8.4 million in grants for infrastructure improvements, including park updates.

“You’ve got to be waist-deep in the Colorado River to stay cool in Needles,” Martinez remarked.

Late June’s extreme heat contributed to a brush fire near Needles that scorched 70 acres and destroyed one structure before crossing into Arizona and burning an additional 143 acres. Martinez mentioned that infrastructure upgrades include beach cleanups to reduce future wildfire risks. This year, the state’s hot weather has led to 30 times more burned acreage than last year.

The town operates a senior center that offers water and a cool place for residents. It is equipped with a generator and can serve as an emergency shelter during power outages.

Mayor Jernigan emphasized that while recent improvements are significant, “We still have a long way to go.”