Hikers collapse in intense heat and need rescue, Grand Canyon officials say

Grand Canyon National Park officials spent their weekend rescuing hikers who collapsed in intense heat, the park said.

Rangers responded to multiple search-and-rescue incidents after hikers and backpackers experienced heat illness and exhaustion, according to a park news release.

“Hikers and backpackers attempting hikes in the inner canyon are strongly encouraged to be prepared for excessively hot temperatures and to understand their own physical limitations in order to prevent emergency situations for themselves and responders,” the park said.

In one incident, a river runner had heat illness and fatigue Saturday on a Colorado River trip, according to the park. The runner drank an excessive amount of water, which led to “hyponatremia and an altered level of consciousness,” Grand Canyon officials said.

The river runner was taken to Flagstaff Medical Center by helicopter and ambulance, according to the park.

In another incident on Sunday, a hiker experienced heat stroke while going on the Bright Angel Trail, according to the park. The hiker was also taken to Flagstaff Medical Center in a helicopter.

The park said those were not the only incidents over the weekend. Other hikers experienced heat exhaustion on the Bright Angel and South Kaibab trails, according to the park.

“Rangers at Grand Canyon National Park are strongly urging visitors who plan to hike in the canyon to take extra precautions and hike smart,” Grand Canyon officials said. “Hikers should hike before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m., rest in shade whenever possible, and avoid hiking during the heat of the day. Rangers advise that anyone hiking in heat needs to balance food and water intake, drink when thirsty, and get wet to stay cool.”

An “excessive heat warning” is in effect for Grand Canyon, Arizona, that will last until Wednesday evening, according to The Weather Channel. It calls for “dangerously hot conditions with high temperatures of 105 to 113 below 4,000 feet.”