Severe Heatwave Strikes the Valley: Essential Safety Tips for You and Your Loved Ones

The City of Phoenix has temporarily closed several popular hiking trails in response to an extreme heat warning. Trail closures affected areas at Camelback Mountain, South Mountain, and Piestewa Peak from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with the warning issued by the National Weather Service continuing through Monday.

Despite the closures, some locals and tourists ventured out. A dozen hikers were spotted on the Echo Canyon trail, braving temperatures around 105 degrees. One hiker remarked, “I don’t really feel it, honestly. I’m cool with it, just take some water and stay hydrated.”

Nicole Ronquillo, visiting from the East Coast, attempted Camelback for the first time but did not reach the summit due to the heat. “It was pretty hot, so it was a challenging hike, but it was really fun and scenic,” she noted.

Local authorities have been stressing safety in the recent extreme conditions. Last week, firefighters rescued several hikers on Camelback Mountain, resulting in two hospitalizations. On Monday around 11 a.m., emergency responders were called back to the Echo Canyon Trail for hikers suffering heat-related issues. Up to four individuals required assistance; a helicopter was deployed for three hikers, with one reported in critical condition.

Fire officials issued warnings to hikers, emphasizing the importance of group hiking, ample water supply, proper clothing, and having a charged cell phone ready for emergencies. They recommend turning back if hikers consume half their water while still on the route.