Motorcyclist dies in Death Valley apparently from heat exposure
One motorcyclist died and another was hospitalized after the heat became unbearable in record-breaking temperatures in Death Valley National Park over the weekend, authorities said.
The incident occurred Saturday in the Badwater Basin portion of the park, when temperatures rose to 130 degrees Fahrenheit (58 degrees Celsius), setting a daily record, Death Valley National Park officials said.
A group of six motorcyclists were riding through the area when two of them suffered severe heat-related illnesses, park officials said in a written statement.
Authorities said one of the drivers died from heat-related illness. A second was taken to hospital for treatment of “severe heat illness.”
Four other members of the group were treated at the scene, authorities added.
Due to the record-breaking heat, rescue workers were unable to transport the victims by helicopter because it is not safe to fly in temperatures above 49 degrees Celsius, park officials said.
Saturday’s high temperature surpassed the region’s previous daily record of 127 degrees set in 2007.
Park ranger Mike Reynolds urged visitors to be vigilant given the serious threat of extreme heat.
“Such heat can pose a real health threat,” he said. “While it is very exciting to experience potentially world-record temperatures in Death Valley, we advise visitors to choose their activities carefully and avoid spending extended periods of time outside of an air-conditioned vehicle or building when temperatures are this high.”
When the head index exceeds 99 degrees, ambient air, such as the wind blowing on motorcyclists, can no longer help combat the heat, officials said.
More: 130 degrees: California’s Death Valley could soon break the world heat record
“Heat illness and injuries are cumulative and can build up over the course of a day or several days,” the statement said. “In addition to not being able to cool down while riding due to the high ambient temperatures, experiencing Death Valley by motorcycle in this heat is further challenging due to the need to wear heavy protective gear to avoid injury in the event of an accident.”
Hiking and other outdoor activities are discouraged during periods of extreme heat, especially at lower elevations, park officials said.
More: Extreme heat in California: Hundreds dead, thousands injured, billions of dollars
The authorities also called for additional security measures:
- Drink enough
- Wear loose-fitting clothing, a hat and sunscreen
- Avoid the sun during daytime highs
- Carry an umbrella
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