Going to outdoor concerts during extreme heat: An actual survival guide

Ed Masley, Arizona Republic
·3 min read

If you're seeing an outdoor concert in metro Phoenix this summer, check the weather before you go. Your health could depend on it.

An excessive heat warning is in effect for metro Phoenix and south-central Arizona through Thursday, July 13. The National Weather Service in Phoenix says high temperatures this weekend could reach 114 degrees, posing a moderate to major risk of heat stress or illness for the entire population.

Event promoters Forty8Live! have canceled their weekly Sunset Concert Series at Phoenix Events Complex, citing concerns about the health and safety of eventgoers, vendors and performers.

Other outdoor concerts will proceed as scheduled for now, including a concert co-headlined by TLC and Shaggy at Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre on Friday, July 7.

The Original Misfits are bringing their reunion tour to that venue Saturday, July 15.

If you're going to an outdoor concert in Phoenix this summer, here's how to minimize the health risks and maybe even enjoy your time outdoors.

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What are the harmful effects of extreme heat?

An excessive heat warning means a period of very hot temperatures, even by the local standards we endure each summer.

Overexposure to dangerously hot conditions causes cramps and heat exhaustion. Without intervention, this can lead to heat stroke.

How do you stay safe in extreme heat?

The National Weather Service in Phoenix offers these recommendations to lessen the impact of extreme heat:

  • Stay indoors and seek air-conditioned buildings, which you obviously can’t do if you’re going to an outdoor concert.

  • Drink more water than usual and avoid alcoholic, sugary or caffeinated drinks, which can be dehydrating.

  • Wear lightweight and light-colored clothing.

  • Eat small meals more often.

  • Monitor people with a higher vulnerability to heat, including small children.

  • If engaging in outdoor activity, take longer and more frequent breaks and avoid the hottest parts of the day.

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How to find out about excessive heat warnings

You have lots of ways to find out if extreme heat is in the forecast:

Signs of heat-related illness and what to do

These are the signs and symptoms of heat-related illness, according to the National Weather Service:

  • Early signs include thirst and muscle cramps.

  • Signs of heat exhaustion may include cool, moist, pale skin; headache; dizziness; weakness or exhaustion; nausea.

  • The most serious illness is heat stroke. Signs of heat stroke may include vomiting; confusion; throbbing headache; decreased alertness or loss of consciousness; a body temperature above 105 degrees; hot, dry skin; rapid, weak pulse; rapid, shallow breathing; seizures.

  • Heat stroke can be deadly and should be treated as an emergency. If you believe you’re suffering from heat stroke, call 911.

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Reach the reporter at ed.masley@arizonarepublic.com or 602-444-4495. Follow him on Twitter @EdMasley.

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This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Outdoor concerts in extreme heat: Health risks and safety tips