GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK, Ariz. – Three hikers died of suspected heat-related illnesses in the Grand Canyon over two separate days during the past week, federal officials said Friday. The deaths occurred in the inner canyon, where midday shade temperatures can climb above 109 degrees Fahrenheit (43 degrees Celsius).
According to the U.S. National Park Service, a 72-year-old man became ill from the heat while hiking the South Kaibab Trail on June 12 and died before rescue teams could reach him. Four days later, a 67-year-old man and a 68-year-old woman showed signs of heat-related illness while hiking the North Kaibab Trail and also died before assistance arrived.
Park officials said emergency crews responded quickly and aerial support was deployed, but all three hikers had died by the time first responders made contact.
Grand Canyon officials said the park has experienced a rise in heat-related illnesses in recent weeks and warned hikers in the inner canyon to avoid trails between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
The bodies were transported to the Coconino County Medical Examiner’s Office, and the National Park Service said investigations into the deaths remain underway.
