The National Park Service reported that two separate incidents along the Grand Canyon's Kaibab Trail resulted in the deaths of three hikers last week, as an extreme heat warning was issued for the area.
Extreme Heat Watch Issued
The US National Weather Service issued an extreme heat watch for lower parts of the Grand Canyon from Monday through Tuesday, with temperatures projected to exceed 100°F (37.7°C). The alert, published on Saturday, will be in effect from 10 a.m. local time Monday to 7 p.m. Tuesday. Temperatures could climb as high as 112°F (44.4°C), according to the NWS office in Flagstaff, Arizona.
Forecasters warned of "dangerously hot conditions" below 4,000 feet, with daytime temperatures ranging from 97°F (36.1°C) at Havasupai Gardens to 111°F (43.8°C) at Phantom Ranch. "Most individuals will be at risk for heat-related illnesses without effective cooling or adequate hydration, especially with prolonged outdoor exposure," the agency's Flagstaff office said. Such "extreme heat watch" notices are reserved for the hottest days of the year and issued when temperatures could rise to dangerous levels.
Heat-Related Hiker Deaths
On Friday, the National Park Service said rangers and emergency personnel responded to two separate heat-related incidents on June 12 and June 16 that resulted in three deaths. "In both cases, the deceased hikers were hiking trails in the Inner Canyon, where temperatures can exceed 109°F in the shade during midday hours," the agency said.
On June 12, a 72-year-old male succumbed to symptoms of heat-related illness along the South Kaibab Trail. On June 16, a 67-year-old man and a 68-year-old woman died on the North Kaibab Trail, though the investigation is ongoing. "Despite rapid response and aerial support, all three individuals were found deceased when responders arrived," the statement said.
Earlier this month, an 18-year-old man also died in the park after experiencing heat-related symptoms. "Hiking in Grand Canyon can be a challenge for anyone, especially during the heat of summer," the park service said. "Recent increase in heat-related incidents comes as summer temperatures in the Inner Canyon have reached dangerous levels, creating conditions that can quickly overwhelm hikers during the hottest parts of the day."
Safety Recommendations
Weather officials urged hikers to avoid being in the canyon between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. and advised against physical activity during peak heat. The NWS emphasized the importance of hydration and staying cool.
Other Heat Warnings Across US
In Arizona, evacuation orders were issued for communities between Sedona and Forest Highlands due to the Pocket fire near Sedona in Oak Creek Canyon. Extreme heat watches were also issued for parts of Oregon from Monday through Tuesday evening and for portions of California from Tuesday evening through Thursday. In Texas, the NWS office in San Angelo forecast triple-digit heat from Sunday into early next week. Heat advisories are currently in effect for parts of Alaska, Puerto Rico, Florida, and Texas, and were issued for Sunday in portions of Arkansas, Oklahoma, Texas, and New Mexico.
