Source: NPR
A stifling heat wave in the Western U.S. has turned popular nature trails deadly, with recent incidents including a child collapsing in Phoenix, a couple needing airlift rescue near Joshua National Park, and three hikers dying at the Grand Canyon. Extreme heat, with record-breaking temperatures like 124°F in Palm Springs, poses significant dangers to hikers. Symptoms of heatstroke include hot skin, strong pulse, headache, dizziness, and confusion, often ignored by hikers striving to complete their trek.
Essential precautions include hydrating, dressing appropriately, timing hikes for cooler parts of the day, and avoiding strenuous activity during peak heat. Dogs, more susceptible to heat, should be kept indoors when temperatures soar. Heat-related rescues are common in Phoenix, requiring substantial resources and posing risks to rescuers. Authorities emphasize the importance of respecting the extreme conditions to prevent tragic outcomes.
Read the full story HERE: https://www.npr.org/2024/07/11/nx-s1-5035209/extreme-heat-hiking-safety