“Study Shows Climate Change Will Increase Heat-Related Illness at Grand Canyon National Park”
A new study conducted by the National Park Service has found that climate change-fueled extreme heat will significantly increase the risk of heat-related illness for the millions of people who visit Grand Canyon National Park each year. The study, which used data from 2004 to 2009 to establish a heat-illness risk baseline, predicts that the rate of heat illness per 100,000 visitors could increase by up to 137% by 2100 under the highest emission scenario.
Researchers highlighted the growing health risk posed by more frequent, volatile, intense, and exceptionally long-lasting heat waves. National parks have already warmed twice as fast as the rest of the US due to human-caused climate change. The study’s lead author, Danielle Buttke, emphasized that climate change is the greatest public health threat of the century, impacting every aspect of our lives and well-being.
Heat-related illnesses such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke can lead to hospitalization and even death. Since 2007, heat is suspected to have caused the deaths of 16 people at Grand Canyon National Park, more than any other national park. Suspected heat deaths are on the rise nationally, coinciding with multiple record-shattering heat waves.
Buttke warned that the study’s projections could be underestimated, as current warming and emissions closely track the worst-case scenario. The risk of heat-related illness is most pronounced during the cooler months, highlighting the challenge of anticipating and preparing for extreme heat in a warming world. Behavioral adaptations, such as wearing proper clothing and staying hydrated, can help reduce heat-related illnesses.
As emissions and warming continue on their current pace, parks and people will need to prepare for the volatility and danger of heat. Climate change is leading us into a new climate that is unpredictable, posing the greatest risk to human health and well-being. Every action taken to lessen our impact and advocate for climate action can save lives in the face of this growing threat.