A hiker near the summit of Lookout Mountain Preserve in north Phoenix suffered over 100 bee stings on Saturday morning, leading to a critical condition that required airlifting to safety, according to firefighters.
The Phoenix Fire Department reported that the man, whose name hasn’t been disclosed yet, found himself unable to make his way down the trail after the swarm attacked him.
Officials noted that he received “more than 100 stings,” rendering him incapable of continuing down the mountain. Rescue teams worked together, using helicopter support to retrieve the hiker.
After being evacuated, he was taken to an ambulance stationed at the trailhead before being transported to a hospital. No further details about his injuries or current health have been shared.
The Phoenix Fire Department has issued advisories regarding bee safety in light of the warm weather, which is leading to an increase in bee activity. They recommend avoiding hive areas, steering clear of strongly scented products outdoors, wearing light-colored clothing, and if confronted by a swarm, to run while protecting your head and face.
Dr. Gary Kirkilas, a pediatrician at Phoenix Children’s Hospital, mentioned that typically, in non-allergic cases, a person can endure up to 500 or even 1,000 bee stings before it becomes fatal, whereas those with allergies can be severely affected by just a few stings.
