Hiker in Grand Canyon Dead Due to Record-Breaking Heat That Reached Triple Digits

When temperatures hit 116 degrees this past weekend, an Ohio lady trekking in the Grand Canyon appeared to have died of heat-related causes.

Severe Heat

Last week, record-breaking heat blanketed most of the Southwest, with temperatures reaching far beyond 100 degrees in several places.

According to a news release from the National Park Service, Michelle Meder, 53, of Hudson, Ohio, was hiking down the Hermit Trail on Saturday when she became lost and then passed out.0

Grand Canyon National Park spokeswoman Joelle Baird told the Associated Press that three members of the party of five split off and went farther into the canyon, where they requested a commercial rafting group to call park rangers using their satellite phone.

Heat Exhaustion

The Grand Canyon Regional Communications Center got a report of a hiker suffering from heat exhaustion on the Tonto Trail near Monument Creek about 1:15 p.m. Sunday.

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Unfortunate Events

Meder was discovered dead on a challenging trail with minimal shade, according to Baird. The sole sources of water were a few tiny streams. The local medical examiner's office is investigating Meder's death to establish the exact cause of death.

According to the National Weather Service, the temperature at Phantom Ranch, near the bottom of the Grand Canyon, hit 116 degrees on Saturday. On Sunday, it reached 115 degrees.

According to the Associated Press, the temperature on the canyon's South Rim is roughly 20 degrees lower than at the bottom.

Summer temperatures on exposed portions of the route may reach above 120 degrees in the shade, according to the Park Service, and rangers advise tourists to avoid trekking in the inner canyon between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. The majority of persons seeking emergency medical assistance in the canyon due to heat sickness do so within these hours, according to the statement.

"Even those who are accustomed, athletic, and in shape, it's just really harsh this time of year," Baird added. "They are in a battle. If you're not used to trekking in these conditions and aren't receiving enough nourishment and hydration, temperature regulation might be difficult."

According to the Park Service, a 60-year-old Illinois man died Tuesday while trekking out of the canyon.

William Smith of Oswego, Illinois, was ready to leave after completing a day trek to Ooh Ahh Point, approximately a mile down the South Kaibab Trail when he fainted. Bystanders began CPR, and Park Service EMS arrived to aid with the resuscitation efforts. Their attempts were in vain.

Continued Investigation

The cause of death is being investigated by the Park Service and the Coconino County Medical Examiner.

Always Remember

Know where you're going and what route you're taking, as well as when you anticipate being back in your car or within mobile phone range. Isn't it simple? If you don't have anybody to report to, that person may be a buddy, a partner, or even a ranger.

Hikes are more pleasant and safe when you have a clear grasp of your own fitness level, expertise, and confidence. When planning your route, you'll know what type of trail distance, elevation gain, and effort level to pick. In addition, you'll be able to better anticipate what trail conditions to avoid and when it's a good idea to turn back.

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