Arizona is currently experiencing a record-breaking heat wave, and as a result, doctors are noticing an increase in patients who have suffered burns from coming into contact with the scorching ground. Dr. Kevin Foster from the Arizona Burn Center at Valleywise Health hospital in Phoenix revealed to CNN that this year’s number of patients with burn injuries is unusually high, along with the severity of their injuries. He explained that the temperature of asphalt, pavement, concrete, and sidewalks in Arizona can reach up to 180 degrees on a warm, sunny day, almost boiling point.
Foster mentioned that their 45-bed burn unit is currently at full capacity, and about a third of the patients, including those in the ICU, have suffered burns from falling down on hot surfaces. He emphasized that it only takes a fraction of a second for bare skin to come into contact with a hot surface and sustain a deep burn. People who have been on the scorching asphalt for longer periods of time can even develop third-degree burns, which are typically seen in survivors of house fires. Foster also mentioned that they have treated burn patients who are elderly individuals who fell over and people who fainted while working outside.
In Phoenix, where the temperature has exceeded 110 degrees Fahrenheit for 26 consecutive days, relief might finally be on the horizon. Meteorologist Isaac Smith from the National Weather Service in Phoenix stated that it is unlikely to see temperatures over 110 every day for the remainder of the month. He added that highs are expected to decrease over the weekend, and there is a 40-50% chance of monsoon rains. (Read more heat wave stories.)
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