3 hospitalized, dozens more experience heat-related illness at Colorado Springs air show

Amid extreme heat at the Pikes Peak Air Show in Colorado Springs Saturday afternoon, around 40 to 50 people experienced heat-related illness, three of whom were hospitalized, officials said.

In a social media post at around 3:45 p.m., the Colorado Springs Fire Department said several dozen people were taken indoors to cool down as fire personnel monitored them. The conditions of the three people hospitalized were not confirmed. 

Few other details were immediately available, but the number of people needing help required "additional resources," the fire department said.  

The air show took place at the Colorado Springs Airport at 7330 Embraer-Heights and saw performances from the Blue Angels, and F-22 Raptor, the EA-18G Growler Airshow Team, historic planes like a B-25J Mitchell and more. Other military and civilian aircraft were on display.

The weather forecast for Saturday called for a high of 93 degrees Fahrenheit and minimal cloud coverage.

At around 1:45 p.m., the air show reminded people on social media to drink enough water amid the heat: "PLEASE remember to stay hydrated during this hot weather. There is a FREE water station at the center of the grounds near the medical station."

The airshow is held "under the open sky," it says on its website. "We strongly recommend bringing hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Please plan on being exposed to direct sunlight for the duration of the event. You may also bring a small personal umbrella; however, no large umbrellas, tents, or canopies are allowed."

"You can pre-purchase tickets to the upgraded Canteen Experience, which is the only ticket option that comes with shade," the website's "frequently asked questions" section continued.

The airshow is scheduled through Sunday.