July 7th, 2024

Death Valley is so hot right now, rescue helicopters can't fly

Death Valley faces scorching temperatures up to 130 degrees, challenging rescue operations and emphasizing caution for visitors. Record-breaking heat persists despite skepticism over historical measurements.

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Death Valley is so hot right now, rescue helicopters can't fly

Death Valley is set to experience scorching temperatures this weekend, with forecasts predicting highs of 128 degrees on Sunday and Monday, potentially reaching 130 degrees. Despite this extreme heat, the official record of 134 degrees from 1913 still stands, although it has faced skepticism due to the age of the measurement equipment. Death Valley holds the record for the hottest place on Earth, with the World Meteorological Organization recognizing it since 2012. The park attracts over a million tourists annually, drawn by its extreme temperatures and unique geography. Helicopters may be unable to fly in such high temperatures, making rescue operations challenging. Visitors are advised to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activities, and be prepared for survival without relying on modern conveniences like cell phone service. Death Valley's harsh conditions serve as a reminder of the dangers posed by extreme heat, emphasizing the importance of caution and preparedness in such environments.

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By @watermelon0 - 3 months
Access seems to be blocked to the EU users; alternative: https://archive.is/hQDwp
By @LorenPechtel - 3 months
Question: Is it that the helicopters truly can't fly as in not enough lift? That seems strange because hot air in Death Valley is still thicker than cooler air in the mountains.

Or is this an FAA problem? Aircraft are not allowed to operate outside their published performance tables. Phoenix has been hit by that more than once--lots of tables top out at 120F and it becomes illegal to operate the aircraft if it reaches 121F.

By @kotaKat - 3 months
By @exabrial - 3 months
I imagine if we could make helicopters fly on mars and gas giant's moons, I wonder if we could tune a chopper's blades to work in extreme heat (I'm guessing a lot more of them and wider surface area). This is of course excluding the economics of such a thing
By @moralestapia - 3 months
Is it that they can't fly at all or is it just dangerous to do it?

The article says they can't lift off but I don't think that's correct. In the case of airplanes they just need more runway, helis should just need more power?

By @vixen99 - 3 months
"The sweltering heat could creep close to the world’s record highest temperature of 134 degrees marked at Greenland Ranch in Death Valley on July 10, 1913, according to the National Weather Service office in Las Vegas."
By @sea-gold - 3 months
Related (29 days ago, 17 comments): https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=40608454
By @mensetmanusman - 3 months
Why don’t we have quad copters for humans yet?