Extreme Heat Grounds Medical Helicopters in California

Summary:
In California, extreme heat, exacerbated by climate change, is increasingly impacting the operations of medical helicopters. Pilots like Douglas Evans, who have decades of experience, are now being forced to cancel flights due to high temperatures. Over the weekend, REACH Air Medical Services declined at least two rescue calls because of excessive heat. High temperatures make it difficult for helicopters to lift off, navigate, and keep onboard systems functioning. National parks, including Joshua Tree and Death Valley, have warned visitors that helicopters may not be able to reach them during extreme heat. A recent incident in Death Valley saw one motorcyclist die from heat exposure when a helicopter could not be dispatched due to 128-degree temperatures. The Stanford Life Flight team, operating across California and Nevada, faces similar challenges, often having to wait for cooler weather or modify flight plans. The heat not only affects rescue operations but also stresses the helicopter’s crew, who must endure high temperatures during missions. Evans and other pilots are increasingly aware that rising temperatures will continue to complicate their life-saving work.