It’s going to be an extremely hot week at Grand Canyon National Park and the park officials have issued a safety warning to visitors. Most areas of the park below 5000 feet will exceed 100 degrees, with temperatures pushing 110 degrees below 4000 feet.
Folks visiting the Grand Canyon during the current heat wave are advised that most will be at risk for heat-related illnesses without effective cooling or adequate hydration, especially with prolonged outdoor exposure. Between 10:00am and 4:00pm hikers should be out of the canyon and physical activity is discouraged. Day hikers on Bright Angel Trail should descend no farther than 1 1/2 miles from the upper trailhead. All hikers should have adequate gear, including a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, salty snacks, sufficient water, and electrolyte mix. Doubling your calorie intake helps maintain your energy.
Extreme Heat Warning issued July 5 at 9:04PM MST until July 8 at 8:00PM MST by NWS Flagstaff AZ
WHAT: For the Extreme Heat Warning below 4000 feet, dangerously hot conditions expected, with daytime temperatures ranging from 93 degrees at Havasupai Gardens, to 112 degrees at Phantom Ranch. For the Extreme Heat Watch below 4000 feet, dangerously hot conditions possible, with daytime temperatures ranging from 99 degrees at Havasupai Gardens, to 113 degrees at Phantom Ranch.
WHERE: Lower elevations of the Grand Canyon.
WHEN: For the Extreme Heat Warning, from 10 AM Monday to 8 PM MST Wednesday. For the Extreme Heat Watch, from Wednesday evening through Saturday evening.
IMPACTS: Most individuals will be at risk for heat-related illnesses without effective cooling or adequate hydration, especially with prolonged outdoor exposure.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS:
This warning is reserved for only the hottest days of the year and is issued when temperatures are expected to rise to dangerous levels.
Hike Smart @ Grand Canyon National Park
Every year, scores of unprepared hikers, lured by initially easy downhill hiking, experience severe illness, injury, or death from hiking in the canyon. Watch the following video featuring Grand Canyon park rangers as they explore how to have a safe and unforgettable adventure at the Grand Canyon, including expert tips on preparedness, hydration, and hiking in the heat.
