A French tourist has died in California’s Death Valley after becoming stranded on the side of the road during 46.6C (116F) heat. The 68-year-old, Pierre Michel Formosa, was found dead around the salt flats of Death Valley after his car got stuck in mud.
Police found Formosa following a brief search, with the National Park service saying he died while trying to seek help in the blistering heat. This incident is a reminder of the dangers of the extreme heat in Death Valley, which has caused dozens of heat-related deaths across the United States.
- Formosa’s car got stuck in mud on West Side Road while driving through Death Valley with his French travelling companion.
- The pair sought help by walking across the salt flats, but severe heat prevented Formosa from continuing after 1.3 miles.
- The travelling companion managed to hail down a nearby driver, before rangers and police found Formosa later that afternoon where he was pronounced dead.
- An extreme heat warning is currently in effect across Death Valley, which brands itself as the hottest place on Earth.
Death Valley National Park Response
Death Valley National Park Superintendent Mike Reynolds said in a statement, “This is a heartbreaking reminder of how quickly conditions here can turn dangerous.” Reynolds also stated that “Death Valley is an extraordinary place, but its heat, distances, and remoteness can be dangerous, regardless of experience.”
Reynolds expressed gratitude to everyone who took part in the search and offered condolences to Formosa’s loved ones. Coroners will determine the cause and manner of his death, according to the national park.
Mike Reynolds’ Statement
Reynolds emphasized the importance of being aware of the dangers of Death Valley, saying “We’re grateful to everyone who took part in the search, and our thoughts are with his loved ones.” The incident serves as a reminder to tourists visiting US landmarks to be cautious of the extreme heat.
Heatwave Warnings and Precautions
Forecasters at the National Weather Service expect Southern California to experience its hottest week of summer so far. Record heatwaves have endangered tourists visiting US landmarks throughout the summer, with at least four hikers dying in June while trekking through the Grand Canyon.
For more information on heatwave warnings and precautions, visit Watan News for the latest updates and news.
