Motorcyclist in Death Valley dies of heat at record temperatures
Authorities are currently investigating after a motorcyclist died from heat exposure in Death Valley National Park over the weekend when temperatures in the region reached a new high.
National Park Service rangers said the death occurred Saturday near Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America at 282 feet below sea level. The salt flats in Inyo County are not far from the California-Nevada border, about 130 miles west of Las Vegas by car.
The driver was traveling with a group of six motorcyclists, rangers said in a news release Monday. Another driver was taken to a Las Vegas hospital for treatment for severe heat illness, officials said.
The other four were treated and released in the national park.
A coroner will determine the cause and manner of death of the victim.
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Death Valley breaks record temperature of 128 degrees on July 6
According to a statement from the park, the highest temperature on Saturday was a preliminary reading of 128 degrees, surpassing the official daily record in Death Valley of 127 degrees from 2007.
“Due to the high temperatures, rescue helicopters could not be deployed because they cannot fly safely at temperatures above 49 degrees,” the statement continued.
“Heat illness and injuries are cumulative and can build up over the course of one or more days,” park rangers 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 another challenge, as you must wear heavy protective gear to avoid injury in the event of an accident.”
Park officials warn visitors of extreme heat
Park officials continued to warn visitors Monday about the dangers of spending extended periods outdoors in extreme heat.
“Such heat can pose a real health threat,” said Superintendent Mike Reynolds. “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 in such high temperatures.”
Officials also recommended that park visitors avoid hiking, especially at lower elevations.
Tips to avoid heat exposure:
- Avoid the sun if possible.
- Seek shade or air conditioning during the hottest times of the day.
- Wear loose-fitting, light clothing, sunscreen, a hat or carry an umbrella.
- Make sure you drink enough fluids and eat salty snacks.
Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter at USA TODAY. Reach her at [email protected] and follow her on X at @nataliealund.
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