Hikers brave heat wave at Pinnacles National Park
It has been a hot week in the Central Coast’s inland areas with the National Weather Service issuing a heat advisory for Saturday.
The warning affects parts of Monterey and San Benito Counties, and public safety officials got out there to give people advice.
The dry, open trails at Pinnacles National Park made for some harsh conditions, but many hikers did not seem at all deterred by the weather at first.
Temperatures were predicted to be in the 100-degree range at the park.
“Our biggest concern obviously is hikers being prepared for those type of conditions,” said Daniel Gearhart, who works as a Preventative Search and Rescue supervisor at the Pinnacles.
On Saturday, Gearhart spent a lot of time going to people in the parking lot and advising them of the conditions.
“We try to engage with the visitors prior to them going on the trails, advise them of what the potential conditions are as far as the temperatures, what to expect on the trail and then give them some advice on how to prepare for a hike in high temperatures like this,” he said.
“Looks like you guys have plenty of water with you, that’s good. Probably at least three to four liters per person is recommended today,” Gearhart told a few hikers.
The parks service says it is important to hydrate throughout the day even before you leave the house to go hiking. A hat, sunglasses and sunscreen should also be part of any outdoor adventure.
The main risk hiking in these temperatures is heat stroke. Symptoms include cramping, extreme fatigue and passing out.
“That could at least lead to a serious injury or serious condition and even death too,” said Gearhart.
“It’s pretty brutal. Probably wouldn’t start a hike now because it’s getting really hot,” said Nicholas Huynh, who was hiking on Saturday.
“I have my hair protecting my face, she has a hat,” said Guillaume, who was hiking with his companion.
You cannot change the heat, but there are plenty of ways to stay cool. Or at least try.
“When it is extremely hot like this, you can only take off so many layers of clothing,” said Gearhart.
