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Where Is the Lowest Point in Africa?

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Quick Answer

Lake Assal in Djibouti lies about 155 metres below sea level.

The Full Story

Lake Assal in central Djibouti is Africa's lowest point, lying approximately 155 metres below sea level. It is also the most saline body of water outside Antarctica, with salinity levels about 10 times that of the ocean. The lake sits in the Afar Depression, a geologically active area where three tectonic plates are pulling apart. Surrounding temperatures regularly exceed 50 °C, making it one of the hottest places on Earth. Salt is harvested from its shores and traded as it has been for centuries.

Key Facts

1.Lake Assal has no outlet; water evaporates, leaving behind thick salt deposits.
2.The Afar Depression is slowly widening and will eventually become a new ocean basin.
3.The Dead Sea (about −430 m) is the lowest point on any continent.

YouTube Angle

Suggested video title for this topic:

"Lake Assal — Africa's Deepest and Saltiest Lake"