More than 100 individuals attending the Pike's Peak regional airshow in Colorado were treated for heat-related illnesses on Saturday as temperatures reached scorching highs of 96°F (36°C). Reports from attendees described a lack of shade and free water on the festival grounds, exacerbating the sweltering conditions.

According to the Colorado Springs fire department, those affected suffered from dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Five individuals required hospitalization, while approximately another hundred sought help in a triage tent where they received on-site intravenous fluids, as reported by KRDO.

Attendees at the airshow faced difficulties obtaining water as supplies quickly ran out. However, authorities assured that water could be obtained from the medical tent and vendors were selling water as well. The absence of clouds in the sky intensified the heat, with direct sunlight bearing down on the concrete grounds, making the conditions even more unbearable for those already overheated, KRDO noted.

Tom Selders, a Navy veteran attending the airshow, cited the challenging conditions as a reason for leaving the event earlier than planned. "It's a long ways to the parking lot and my wife and I are old," Selders shared in an interview with the station.

Despite the heat-related incidents on Saturday, the airshow continued on Sunday, with officials urging attendees to come prepared. Recommendations included bringing refillable water bottles, umbrellas, and hats to combat the heat.

This recent incident of mass heat sickness comes just days after a UPS driver in north Texas was hospitalized due to exposure to extreme heat conditions. The driver lost consciousness behind the wheel and crashed after experiencing symptoms related to the sweltering heat, as reported by Fox 4 News. Officials are now warning the public about the risks of heat-related illnesses amidst the scorching summer weather.

HealthDay, an online health news service, highlighted a lack of awareness among US residents regarding nearby cooling centers that could provide relief from dangerous heat conditions. While data suggests that many individuals can recognize the signs of heat sickness, the knowledge of available cooling centers remains limited.

It is essential for everyone, particularly those attending outdoor events during hot weather, to take preventative measures. Staying hydrated, seeking shade, and taking frequent breaks in cool areas can help prevent heat-related illnesses. Being aware of nearby cooling centers and having access to water are crucial in ensuring the well-being and safety of individuals during extreme heat conditions.