NWS Issues Grand Canyon Heat Watch After 3 Hiker Deaths as Temperatures Near 110F
Updated
Updated · The Associated Press · Jun 21
NWS Issues Grand Canyon Heat Watch After 3 Hiker Deaths as Temperatures Near 110F
3 articles · Updated · The Associated Press · Jun 21
Summary
Midday Monday through Tuesday, the National Weather Service expects Phantom Ranch temperatures to reach or exceed 110F, prompting an extreme heat watch for the Grand Canyon.
Three hikers — ages 67, 68 and 72 — died in separate heat-related incidents this month, leading the Park Service to strongly advise against midday hikes after a recent influx of heat illnesses.
Rim temperatures can run 20 to 25 degrees cooler than the canyon bottom, masking the danger for hikers who descend in milder conditions and then face a steep climb back in 105F to 110F heat.
Across the broader region, above-average heat and low humidity are also heightening fire danger; near Sedona, the Pocket Fire burned nearly 300 acres, triggered evacuations and shut about 30 miles of highway.