PHOENIX, AZ – A sweltering day in Phoenix saw temperatures soar to 113 degrees, leading to the dramatic rescue of nearly a dozen hikers, including five children, from South Mountain. Despite an extreme heat warning and clear signage closing the trails, six adults and the children embarked on a hike that quickly turned perilous.
The group, with children aged between 5 and 11, struggled under the intense heat by midday, showing signs of heat exhaustion. Recognizing the urgency, a Phoenix Police Department helicopter swiftly located them, and rescue teams employed cooling measures to stabilize the children.
The rescue operation involved transporting the children down the mountain using a big wheel basket. The event evoked memories of a tragic incident a year prior when a 10-year-old boy succumbed to similar conditions on the same mountain. Rescuers, some of whom were involved in both incidents, emphasized the critical dangers posed by the extreme heat.
A firefighter involved in the rescue described the situation as chaotic and expressed disappointment over the decision to hike with young children in such conditions. The urgency was palpable, given the severe heat and the children’s vulnerability.
All members of the group are expected to recover fully. However, the Phoenix Police Department has yet to decide on any charges or citations. The incident is under review, and the Phoenix Parks and Rangers, responsible for trail oversight, may issue citations for violating city codes by hiking on closed trails.
Signs clearly indicated that the Hullberg Trail was closed from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The decision to proceed despite these warnings has raised concerns about safety and responsibility.
The heat in Phoenix is notoriously intense, with locals accustomed to high temperatures. Yet, as the fire captain noted, the day’s heat felt especially oppressive, with temperatures reaching 114 degrees, making the asphalt feel like it was melting beneath their feet.
The excessive heat warning remains in effect until Tuesday, underscoring the importance of adhering to closures and safety guidelines to prevent further incidents.