VIDEO: National Park Service rescued over 20 students missing near Arizona Hot Springs and Goldstrike Trails. According to officials, 28 hikers, three adults and 25 children with special needs were hiking in the area. Officials announced a temporary closure of the Arizona Hot Springs and Goldstrike Trails due to extreme heat. Temperatures are expected to exceed 100ยฐF.
Rangers have observed that hikers are not yet acclimated or adequately preparing for the extreme conditions. Officials report on April 9. a fatality occured due to the dangerously high temperatures. Rangers have conducted multiple heat-related rescues. Some were evacuated by helicopter. NPS says the closure is expected to last for the next few days. Officials say if temperatures drop they will temporarily re-open the trail before officially closing for the summer during their most hazardous conditions.
