BORREGO SPRINGS, Calif. — Officials at Anza-Borrego Desert State Park are urging people not to visit as hot temperatures continue to soar towards 120 degrees.
"Hiking in temperatures exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit is extremely dangerous and can lead to potentially life-threatening situations. So heat exhaustion, heat illness, can set in before you're even experiencing symptoms," said State Park interpreter Brianna Pinto.
Pinto told CBS 8 that they've posted warnings about visiting on their social media pages, and have warning signs regarding the heat on trails.
"If you'd like to visit Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, we encourage you to come back in October, when we expect temperatures to become a lot more reasonable," said Pinto.
While the park doesn’t see too many visitors during the summer months, they do have what's called heat tourism, where people seek out hot temperatures.
Pinto said during the summer months, the Visitor Center is only open on weekends and holidays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and some of the campgrounds are closed.
However, if you're really intent on going, she has some advice.
“Bringing plenty of water is crucial, and drinking it is the most important part. The CDC recommends about one cup or eight ounces every 15 minutes or so when you're outside in excessive heat, and that means that a one liter water bottle shouldn't last you more than an hour on the trail. Here in the desert, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing is always in fashion. Since there's not a lot of shade out here, you're going to want to protect yourself from the sun with things like hats and sunglasses, sunscreen, long sleeves, even an umbrella can be helpful on a really sunny day,” said Pinto.
Another tip, do outdoor activities during the early morning or evening hours.
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