As the Pikes Peak Air Show soared to new heights, so too did the temperatures, leaving around 100 attendees overheated and prompting emergency services to declare a mass casualty incident in sweltering 96-degree heat.

In a day that promised thrilling aerial displays from the Blue Angels to the F-22 Raptor, the real showstopper was the heat, which turned the event into an unintended endurance test for attendees. With temperatures peaking at 96 degrees and a heat advisory in effect, around 100 attendees were treated for heat-related illnesses—leading some to wonder if they should have packed more than just their sunscreen and umbrellas for this hot mess of an air show.

The Colorado Springs Fire Department was on high alert throughout the event, swiftly declaring it a mass casualty incident due to the influx of heat-related cases. Emergency personnel were on-site, transforming from casual spectators to full-time guardians monitoring attendees for symptoms like dizziness and excessive sweating. Some may argue that spotting a helicopter or two is a thrilling experience, but having first responders nearby could certainly add another layer of excitement—or anxiety, depending on your perspective.

Given the severity of the situation, you might think organizers would have anticipated the need for hydration. Fortunately, a free water station was conveniently located near a medical area, encouraging attendees to refresh themselves in a way that wasn't solely reliant on overpriced concession stand beverages. Nothing says 'family fun' quite like keeping a constant flow of water while watching planes do impressive loops overhead, after all.

While the event primarily showcased an impressive lineup of military and civilian aircraft, it may have inadvertently launched a new category of performance art: extreme hydration races. With attendees advised in advance to bring essentials such as water bottles, hats, sunscreen, and umbrellas, it seems the well-prepared had the best chance of surviving both the aerial antics and the ardent atmosphere.

Amidst the flurry of planes cutting through the sky, it became clear that enthusiastic aviation fans were experiencing the dual threat of breathtaking stunts and oppressive heat. As the air show went on, some spectators found themselves focusing more on finding shade than on spotting the next great aerial maneuver, proving that perspective can vary dramatically depending on whether you're perched on a hillside or passed out in cool shade.

The Pikes Peak Air Show, held on August 17-18 for the hearty and diligent aviators among us, is designed to support local aviation museums. This year, with temperatures reaching a high of 96 degrees, around 100 people were treated for heat-related illness, with 10 hospitalized. The Colorado Springs Fire Department declared it a mass casualty incident due to multiple heat-related illnesses. Plans for next year might involve not only wingspan but also a more robust medical plan to handle any issues derivative of overheating.

While many attendees undoubtedly enjoyed witnessing feats of aviation, it is inevitable that a certain group left with impressions of medical personnel and the closest valet service—an unintended side effect of summer fun. The event featured a heat advisory and on-site emergency personnel were monitoring attendees for heat-related symptoms.

The air show, while a showcase of remarkable aerodynamics, transformed into somewhat of a cautionary tale about hydration strategies when temperatures pivot from friendly to ferocious. Next year, it is expected that the various recommendations will transform from simple essentials into what might resemble a mini survival kit, ensuring that the next round of aerial acrobatics doesn’t get sidelined by airborne heat exhaustion.

Amid these unanticipated challenges, one can only hope for cooler skies during future performances, allowing breath and breath-taking maneuvers to coexist harmoniously throughout the event. However, given this year’s atmosphere, might we suggest that future air shows include lessons on how to spot the nearest shade as part of the entertainment package?