Motorcyclists took hard hits over the 4th of July weekend. Death Valley heat killed one and sent another to the hospital. Four others in the touring group were also hit hard in the July 6 incident. This, when temperatures hit the roasting point at 128 degrees. The six motorcyclists were at Badwater Basin, a salt flat near the California-Nevada state line.
Heat illness is cumulative—can build up over days
A statement from park officials said, “Heat illness and injury are cumulative and can build over the course of a day or days. Besides not being able to cool down while riding due to high ambient air temperatures, experiencing Death Valley by motorcycle when it is this hot is further challenged by the necessary heavy safety gear worn to reduce injuries during an accident.”
Death Valley heat kills hope of helicopter rescue
Helicopters are often dispatched to medical emergencies in the park. In this case, the Death Valley heat killed off that plan. “Due to the high temperatures, emergency medical flight helicopters were unable to respond, as they cannot generally fly safely over 120 degrees,” park management said.
A Las Vegas hospital treated another rider for severe heat illness. The motorcycle group’s four other members experienced heat illness as well, but were released following treatment in the park.
The story of the Death Valley heat incident was picked up by National Parks Traveler. It noted, “Travel by motorcycle may be an exciting way to explore the park, but once heat index of 99°F (37.2C) is exceeded, ambient air no longer helps provide relief.”
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##RVT1165b
People are generally not as smart as they think they are. Someone inexperienced in hot back of beyond climates may have always been in his prior life able to stop at airconditioned bar or restaurant when the temperature hit 90 or 92. Quite a difference from 128. Here in S Florida during summer a lot of bikers drop leather and depend on denim. I’ve never understood wearing denim in hot weather. It may be cotton but it doesn’t keep cool in heat. I am sorry for the families of those involved. Hopefully the survivors learnt something.
Thank you, Russ and Tina! 🙂 Wow! Exceeding 120° F is HOT! 🙂 Very sorry for the rider who succumbed from the heat; condolences to her/his family! 🙂 Very happy that the others in the group recovered from their heat-induced illness. 🙂 Important to know that breezes provide no relief from the heat when the air temperature is 99° F or greater. Thanks again, safe travels, and safe stays! 🙂
Growing up in the little town of Trona (last town before going into DV from the west), I can fully appreciate how summer heat needs to be respected. Those without experience in these conditions and venture into this environment, leave themselves open for a rude awaking that can (as we’ve seen here) lead to death. Heat exhaustion and/or heat stroke can be extremely dangerous. Be smart and take heed.
Darwinism?