When and where does the scorch trials take place?

"The Scorch Trials," the second book in James Dashner's "Maze Runner" series, takes place immediately after the events of "The Maze Runner." The story unfolds in a post-apocalyptic world, primarily in the desolate and harsh landscape of the Scorch, which is a barren stretch of land affected by a global pandemic known as the Flare. The characters navigate through this dangerous environment while facing various challenges, including encounters with Cranks, infected humans, and the oppressive organization known as WCKD.