Organizers of Pat’s Run, Country Thunder prepare for record heat in Arizona
PHOENIX (AZFamily) — Triple-digit temperatures are coming at a time when big events are happening around the state. Country Thunder and Pat’s Run are both this weekend!
The forecast is prompting event organizers to make changes to keep people safe in this heat. High temperatures should be in the 80s right now, so when organizers see triple digits in the forecast, they need to consider how to keep their event running safely and smoothly.
While they’re making changes, they also want participants to prepare themselves.
One of Arizona’s hottest four-day country music festivals kicks off Thursday in Florence. Thousands will be enjoying country music under the Arizona sun with the warmest temperatures of the year so far.
“Really mix in those waters, bring sunscreen and sunglasses. Be prepared in that way,” said Megan Benoit, the digital manager of Country Thunder.
With record-breaking heat in the triple digits expected through Saturday, organizers of major events this weekend are making some changes.
“We have a lot of shaded areas this year. We’ve actually shaded our Copperhead Stage, which is where our Kimes Ranch songwriters showcase is also going to be this year,” Benoit said.
She added that people can bring a water bottle to the festival and encourage them to do so. She also says people should utilize the water stations they will have set up.
“We also have a vendor who is providing IV therapy with vitamins, nutrients, anything like that if people feel they’ve gotten too much sun,” she said.
In Tempe, thousands will take over the streets on Saturday for the 21st annual Pat’s Run.
Pat Tillman Foundation CEO Katherine Steele says the foundation is increasing the number of medical staff at the race and adding more water stations.
“We’ve actually added extra water at every mile marker this year,” she said.
This year, they are also using a new event alert system that breaks down how the event may change based on weather conditions and the actions they will recommend or take.
“When our runners and walkers are on the course, they’re actually going to see flags that are going to indicate how the weather is progressing through the day to keep them aware, and we’re going to do announcements on the racecourse as well,” she said.
Pat’s Run starts at 7:05 a.m., but the last coral will be let out around 8:30 a.m., so the heat will sneak up on people quickly. Organizers are encouraging you to pay attention to your body and your friends and family as well.
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