AngloPress:--- Approximately 100 people were treated for heat-related illnesses at the Pikes Peak Regional Airshow in Colorado Springs on Saturday, with 10 individuals transported to local hospitals, according to officials. The event took place on a day when temperatures soared into the 90s in the east-central Colorado city.
“The Colorado Springs Fire Department and the onsite operations team responded swiftly and effectively, treating around 100 individuals,” the department reported in a Facebook update. “While 10 people were taken to local hospitals, others received care and were monitored by emergency personnel on-site.”
The airshow, a two-day event held at Colorado Springs Airport to support local aviation museums, ran from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on its first day.
The National Weather Service issued a heat advisory for the area from noon to 7 p.m. on Saturday. By 4 p.m., temperatures at the airport had reached 93 degrees, just 2 degrees shy of the record for that day set on August 17, 1962. The average high temperature for August 17 at the airport is typically 84 degrees.
In response to the heat, the airshow organizers had set up a free water station near the medical area and advised attendees to stay hydrated.
The event’s organizer, the Colorado Springs Sports Corporation, emphasized their preparation and coordination with the fire department. “The Colorado Springs Fire Department works closely with the airport and event organizers to prepare for large events,” said Fire Chief Randy Royal. “Their quick actions ensured that attendees were cared for and serious injuries were avoided.”
The airshow plans to continue on Sunday, with organizers encouraging attendees to bring water bottles, hats, sunscreen, and other essentials to stay safe in the heat.
A Navy veteran who attended on Saturday reported leaving early due to the extreme temperatures, stating, “It’s a long walk to the parking lot, and my wife and I are old,” as shared with CNN affiliate KRDO.
Tags:
US