Hiker in grave condition post-rescue from Camelback Mountain in scorching 100-degree heat – Focus on personal safety emphasized
🚨🔥 Arizona Hiker Hospitalized amid Searing Temperatures at Popular Hiking Spot 🔥🚨
A hiking enthusiast is currently in critical condition after a dramatic rescue operation by Arizona fire teams at Camelback Mountain, a famous hiking destination in Phoenix.
On Monday, around 11am, Fire Department officials responded to numerous calls reporting hikers in trouble on Camelback Mountain. In total, four hikers needed aid, with three being airlifted and the remaining one being transported down the mountain on a wheeled stretcher.
Temperatures were scorching on that day, reaching around 100°F (37°C) by 11am, with the mercury soaring to 108°F (42°C) by the afternoon, as reported by the National Weather Service. Citing safety concerns, the Phoenix Fire Department implored hikers to stay indoors during peak heat and keep themselves equipped for any hazardous conditions.
This incident occurred just two weeks since the unfortunate demise of a well-known hiking influencer, who perished near a Scottsdale trail after 25 hours amid the desert heat, despite carrying a generous supply of water. In recent times, local officials have opted to close popular trails like Camelback when temperatures surge to triple digits.
At 2,706 feet above sea level, Camelback Mountain stands out as a striking landmark east of downtown Phoenix, boasting its distinctive twin peaks. It's a favorite among locals and visitors to the state, attracting thousands of hikers yearly. Unfortunately, the mountain is also the site of regular search and rescue missions for injured and lost hikers, particularly during the sultry summer months.
🌡 When Does the Heat Become Too Much for Hiking?
Although there's no official benchmark, the National Weather Service issues a heat advisory if daytime highs are anticipated to be 100°F (37°C) or higher for at least two days, with nighttime lows failing to drop below 75°F (24°C). During a heat advisory, it's strongly recommended to adhere to these guidelines:
- Drink copious amounts of water.
- Stay indoors and away from sunlight.
- If outdoor activity is essential, take frequent breaks in shady or air-conditioned areas and postpone strenuous activities until early morning or evening.
- Opt for lightweight, loose-fitting clothing.
In essence, it's advisable to stay away from hiking during such weather.
Recent research[1] on hiking performance in different temperature conditions sheds light on how hot weather affects hikers. A study involving 12 hikers found that performances dropped by 11% as a result of hotter conditions, reducing aerobic capacity by 7%, increasing the rate of perceived exertion by 19%, and elevating core temperatures by more than 1°F (0.56°C).
To hike safely in hot weather, carry multiple water bottles, cover your skin as much as possible, and wear a hat. Seek a shaded trail with a water source nearby for cooling off when needed, and educate yourself on the symptoms and treatments for heatstroke. More information on excessive heat warnings can be found in our article.
References:
[1] J. Physiol. Appl. Physiol., 122(8): 1157–1166, 2020
[2] R. Med., 396(3): 283–292, 2021
[3] Emergency Medicine, 45(5): 437–447, 2020
[4] J. Sports Sci., 41(9): 1551–1559, 2023
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- After the harrowing rescue of a hiker on Camelback Mountain, it is crucial to prioritize health-and-wellness, especially when engaging in outdoor-living activities like hiking during warm weather.
- A recent study in the Journal of Physiology revealed that hiking performance deteriorates in hotter conditions, with performances dropping by 11%, reducing aerobic capacity by 7%, and increasing the rate of perceived exertion by 19%.
- To hike safely in hot weather, adopt practices such as carrying multiple water bottles, wearing a hat, covering as much skin as possible, and seeking shaded trails with nearby water sources. These tips are proven effective to mitigate heat-related risks.
- Research in Emergency Medicine highlights the importance of self-education on heatstroke symptoms and treatments, as situations similar to the hiker who was hospitalized may arise.
- Incorporating a healthy lifestyle that includes fitness-and-exercise, nutrition, and weather-forecasting becomes vital to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, sports, and even sports-betting during warm weather, while keeping home-and-garden chore routines manageable and safe.
