3 hikers die of suspected heat-related illness during rising temperatures at Grand Canyon
Key Points:
- Three hikers died from apparent heat-related illnesses in the Grand Canyon's inner canyon over two separate days last week, where midday temperatures can exceed 109°F (43°C).
- A 72-year-old man died on June 12 while hiking the South Kaibab Trail, and four days later, a 67-year-old man and a 68-year-old woman died on the North Kaibab Trail.
- Despite rapid response efforts and aerial support, all three hikers were found deceased before rescue teams could reach them.
- The National Park Service reported an increase in heat-related illnesses recently and advised hikers to avoid trails between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. to reduce risk.
- The bodies were sent to the Coconino County Medical Examiner's office, and investigations into the deaths are ongoing.