Colorado Springs Fire Department (CSFD) responded to a mass casualty incident at the Pike's Peak Regional Airshow, where more than 100 people experienced heat-related illnesses. The scorching temperatures, reaching highs of 96 degrees, coupled with a lack of shade and water, took a toll on attendees resulting in cases of heat exhaustion, dehydration, and even heat stroke.

According to CSFD, ten individuals were transported to nearby hospitals, while over 100 sought relief at the triage center, with some receiving intravenous fluids. Attendees leaving the airshow emphasized the urgent need for more shade and water to combat the intense heat.

The absence of clouds in the sky and the sun beating down on the concrete worsened the already oppressive conditions. While event organizers confirmed that the airshow ran out of free water, vendors were still selling water bottles and spectators had the option to fill up reusable bottles at the medical tent.

The combination of high temperatures, limited access to water, and a lack of shade led to rapid dehydration among many attendees, including veterans like Navy veteran Tom Selders, who cut short his airshow experience due to the sweltering conditions.

CSFD Public Information Officer Ashley Franco stated that the situation warranted a mass casualty incident declaration, which allowed for additional resources to be deployed. The City of Fountain sent ambulance support to assist CSFD's response units as the airshow caused the CSFD specialty events team to become overwhelmed by the influx of individuals seeking treatment for heat-related illnesses.

As a precautionary measure for Sunday's airshow, officials are urging attendees to bring refillable water bottles and any form of shade, such as umbrellas and hats, along with applying sunscreen for protection. CSFD has reported that as of now, there are five individuals currently hospitalized, battling heat-related illnesses.

The Colorado Springs Fire Department released a statement on Twitter, acknowledging the extensive efforts being made to address the situation at the Pikes Peak Airshow. They informed the public that over 40-50 people were experiencing heat-related illnesses, with three individuals having been transported to local hospitals, while others have been relocated indoors and are being monitored by fire personnel. Additional resources have been mobilized to ensure the wellbeing of all attendees.

The CSFD's priority remains the safety and welfare of the airshow spectators, and they are working diligently alongside the operations team to ensure necessary precautions are taken.