Additional Coverage:
Over 100 attendees at the Pikes Peak Air Show in Colorado Springs suffered from heat-related illnesses on Saturday, prompting emergency responses, officials reported. Amidst soaring temperatures, emergency personnel treated 100 individuals on the scene, and 10 were sent to local hospitals for further care.
The air show, which drew an expected crowd of 30,000 at the Colorado Springs Airport, experienced a serious health incident shortly after the event commenced. The Colorado Springs Fire Department tackled the situation, declaring it a mass casualty incident due to the number and nature of the heat-related emergencies.
Ashley Franco, a spokesperson for the CSFD, explained during an interview with KRDO that the declaration enabled the department to quickly mobilize additional resources.
The local weather service noted temperatures peaked at 96 degrees under clear skies, contributing to the harsh conditions. CSFD Chief Randy Royal assured that their team was well-prepared for such incidents, collaborating closely with the airport and organizers for large-scale events.
Despite Saturday’s health scares, the air show is set to continue through Sunday. With a heat advisory still in place and temperatures expected to hit 93 degrees, officials urged attendees to bring hydration and protective gear like water bottles, hats, and sunscreen. The CSFD emphasizes preparation to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors amidst the challenging conditions.