A tragic incident unfolded late last week in Canyonlands National Park, Utah, where a father and his daughter tragically perished due to dehydration amidst soaring temperatures exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit, as confirmed by authorities.

Albino Herrera Espinoza, aged 52, and Beatriz Herrera, aged 23, both residents of Green Bay, Wisconsin, were discovered around 6 p.m. on Friday, as detailed in a statement from the San Juan County Sheriff’s Office.

According to reports, the hikers lost their bearings while navigating the challenging Syncline Loop Trail. Their remains were recovered from the mountain early Saturday morning with assistance from a helicopter, the sheriff’s office specified.

During the time of their disorientation, temperatures in the park had surpassed 100 degrees Fahrenheit, according to information provided by the National Park Service. This tragic incident serves as a poignant reminder of the hazards posed by extreme heat and the critical necessity of adequate preparation when venturing into wilderness areas.

National park advisories consistently emphasize the importance of carrying ample water and avoiding strenuous activities during peak daylight hours to mitigate risks associated with heat exposure.

The fatalities at Canyonlands National Park contribute to a concerning national pattern of heat-related deaths this year. As of Monday, the toll has risen to 59 confirmed deaths across the United States, primarily concentrated in Western states such as California, Arizona, Oregon, and Nevada. Notably, Arizona and Oregon have each reported 16 heat-related fatalities. Tragically, Eastern states including Maryland, New York, Virginia, and Pennsylvania have also reported deaths attributable to severe heat conditions.

Additionally, there have been reports of 21 unconfirmed heat-related deaths nationwide, underscoring the widespread impact of the recent intense heatwave that gripped the Western United States. Last week, this region endured a historic heatwave, marked by seven consecutive days of temperatures exceeding 115 degrees Fahrenheit in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The effects of this heatwave extend beyond the West Coast. Recently, the heat index in Central Park, New York City, reached 96 degrees Fahrenheit on a Tuesday, while Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey reported a heat index of 103 degrees Fahrenheit, highlighting the nationwide scope and severity of the ongoing heatwave.