Extreme heat at Colorado airshow sickens 100, hospitalises 10

Extreme heat at the Pikes Peak Regional Airshow in Colorado Springs led to around 100 people rushed for emergency treatment, with 10 individuals hospitalised on Saturday, according to officials. The Colorado Springs Fire Department reported that most of the affected attendees were treated onsite by emergency personnel.

Fire Chief Randy Royal credited the “quick actions” of organizers and emergency officials for preventing more serious injuries during the event, which took place at the Colorado Springs Municipal Airport, about 81 miles south of Denver.
The airshow, which featured performances by the renowned U.S. Navy Blue Angels and displays of both modern and vintage aircraft, had sold out tickets for both Saturday and Sunday. A post on the event’s Instagram account reminded attendees to stay hydrated, noting the availability of a free water station near the medical area.
The National Weather Service in Pueblo, Colorado, had issued a heat advisory for the area, warning of temperatures between 93 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit on Saturday afternoon. The advisory remains in effect for El Paso and Pueblo counties on Sunday from noon to 7 pm.
With the high temperatures expected to continue, the fire department urged those attending the airshow’s second day to come prepared with water bottles, hats, sunscreen, and umbrellas. “Tomorrow will be hot again and we ask everyone to please stay hydrated, be prepared for hot temperatures, and please stay safe,” Royal said.