in the north-eastern russian republic or sakha (yakutia), the village of oymyakon is commonly called the coldest populated place on earth with an average winter temperature of -45C.most homes in oymyakon still burn coal & wood for heat & enjoy few modern conveniences - mobile phones, even if a service was available in the area, would not work in such extreme cold.residents reportedly leave their vehicles running all day and warn visitors against wearing glasses outside, as they will freeze to a person's face.oh how i love southern california!