Three hikers have died in the Grand Canyon from suspected heat-related illnesses on two separate days over the past week, federal officials said Friday, as temperatures in the inner canyon can climb above 109 degrees Fahrenheit in the shade during midday.
On June 12, a 72-year-old man became ill from the heat while hiking the South Kaibab Trail and died before rescue teams were able to reach him.
Four days later, a 67-year-old man and a 68-year-old woman also appeared to experience heat-related illness while on the North Kaibab Trail and died before assistance arrived, the US National Park Service said in a statement.
Although crews responded quickly and aerial support was deployed, all three hikers had died by the time first responders reached their locations, according to the park service.
Park officials said the Grand Canyon has reported an increase in heat-related illnesses in recent weeks and advised 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.
