Did someone forget to close the oven door? That’s how it’s felt outside in places today and is expected to be over the next several days. The thermometer at the lodge nearly cracked 72° this afternoon while a number of the park’s gateway communities apparently reached triple digits for the first time this year. This latest round of hefty heat punches is slated to be the most intense bout yet, and should be taken seriously by all visitors to the Smokies…regardless if man, woman, child, or beast. Sure our measurements may sound pleasant comparatively, but when you consider the effort required to attain such a lofty mountaintop locale, and throw in that infamous southern Appalachian humidity, then there’s really no escaping the oppressive conditions no matter the elevation. About our only hope for some relief will have to come in the form of rain, which might not be until midweek. What was a dry June has persisted into a parched July, the summit having only amassed 0.6” of rainfall thus far. Water is a precious resource up here, and although droughts have been known to be a pest during some autumn seasons (remember last year?), for it to be this dry already is certainly becoming a concern of numerous natural springs across the park. Early starts, frequent breaks, ample hydration, adequate nourishment, sun protection…these things are an absolute must for a safe venture into the backcountry.
Have a great rest of the day.
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