An excessive heat warning issued by the National Weather Service has put millions of Americans at risk during a searing triple-digit heat wave. Tragically, this extreme heat has already resulted in at least two deaths in national parks.
The most recent fatality occurred in Death Valley National Park, located on the California-Nevada border in the Mojave Desert. Temperatures soared to a scorching 128 F over the Fourth of July weekend, leading to the death of a motorcyclist from heat exposure. Another motorcyclist was hospitalized in Las Vegas. The remaining members of the group of six riders were treated for heat-related illnesses in the Badwater Basin region of the park.
The combination of stifling heat and heavy safety gear worn by the motorcyclists made it extremely difficult for them to cool down while riding through the park. Unfortunately, emergency medical helicopters were unable to respond due to the unsafe flying conditions created by temperatures exceeding 120 F.
Death Valley, known as a “land of extremes,” holds the record for the highest temperature ever recorded on Earth at 134 F in 1913. Some experts dispute this record, claiming a temperature of 130 F in 2021. Forecasters suggest this record could be equaled during the current heatwave.
The park had issued warnings about the extreme heat, advising visitors to avoid hiking after 10 a.m., dress appropriately, stay hydrated, and seek shade frequently. Similarly, Grand Canyon National Park experienced a tragedy when a 69-year-old hiker lost his life in the scorching temperatures of the inner canyon.
The relentless heatwave has set global temperature records, with numerous heat records broken on the West Coast over the holiday weekend. Most of the Western U.S., including many national parks, remains under excessive heat warnings.
The high temperatures pose a significant risk to visitors, as many parks are remote with limited cellphone service. While drowning and vehicle accidents are common causes of death in national parks, heat-related illnesses can also be deadly. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises staying hydrated and seeking help if experiencing symptoms of heat-related illnesses.
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