The Mojave Desert is classified as a hot desert.

The Mojave Desert is considered a hot desert due to its extremely high temperatures, especially during the summer months, when daytime temperatures can exceed 100°F (38°C). Hot deserts are characterized by intense heat, low rainfall, and abundant sunlight, all of which define the Mojave's climate. In addition to scorching summers, the desert experiences drastic temperature drops at night. Despite its harsh conditions, the Mojave Desert is home to a variety of resilient plant and animal species, such as the Joshua tree, which have adapted to survive in this extreme, arid environment.