Texas Resident Nathaniel Whittle Discusses Hiking In Extreme Summer Temperatures

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, this summer will likely be one of the hottest and driest summers ever recorded in Texan history. While the heatwave is not deterring Texans from enjoying the first summer post-COVID 19, it is still important that residents prepare for the extreme heat and take necessary safety precautions while outdoors. Nathaniel Whittle, a Texas resident, and life-long hiker, is excited about the upcoming hiking season and is taking the appropriate measures to battle Texas’ heatwave. Below, Nathaniel Whittle of Texas will discuss ways to stay cool while hiking Texas’ rugged trails.

Recognize the Symptoms of Heat Illness

There are two main types of heat illness that all Texas hikers should be aware of this summer — heatstroke and heat exhaustion. While both heat exhaustion and heat stroke are dangerous conditions, heat exhaustion is far more common and, unlike heatstroke, does not require immediate medical attention. However, it is essential that all Texan hikers be able to recognize each heat illness during the upcoming hot summer months.

Heat Exhaustion: Feeling faint or dizzy, nausea and vomiting, muscle cramps, excessive sweating, clammy skin, and rapid/weak pulse.

Heat Stroke: Throbbing headache, change in mental state, rapid and strong pulse, hot and dry skin, nausea or vomiting, lack of sweating.

Stay Hydrated

In July and August, Texas heat can reach temperatures of between 92 to 102 degrees Fahrenheit. It is crucial that Texas hikers plan for extreme temperatures and pack enough water to last throughout their hike. Most experts agree that hikers should drink 16 ounces of water every hour in the heat; however, hikers are encouraged to pack more water in the event of an emergency. Experienced hikers will often pack two forms of hydration (ex. Water bottles and a water filtration system) to ensure that they have more than one source of water in the event that one source fails.

Sun Protection

Although the rays which cause sunburn are more prevalent on overcast or cloudy days, it is still essential that hikers pack extra sunscreen on hot summer days. On days with extreme heat, hikers sweat off sunscreen more quickly, increasing their chances of sunburn and rising increased internal body temperatures. For this reason, hen hikers are encouraged to reapply sunscreen every 1–2 hours when hiking in temperatures above eighty degrees.