Hiking tragedy on hottest May day in decades

A 61-year-old hiker died after trekking in Tai Po after the mercury hit 36.1 degrees Celsius yesterday - the highest May temperature ever recorded by the observatory.

The man surnamed Tang was airlifted by a Government Flying Service helicopter to the Pamela Youde Nethersole Hospital in Chai Wan, where he was certified dead at 11am.

The cause of death would be determined after an autopsy.

Tang was said to have gathered with three friends in Tai Po Tau before trekking to Cloudy Hill in the same district. But upon reaching the Yuk Sau Fung peak at 10am, Tang fainted and his friends called an ambulance. Paramedics performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation before Tang was airlifted to the hospital.

Three hikers also experienced difficulties yesterday on Sharp Island in Sai Kung,including a 72-year-old man who lost his footing due to heat stroke.

The man, Mak, was also airlifted to Pamela Youde while conscious and was in a stable condition shortly after 11am.

The observatory hoisted a "very hot weather" warning yesterday for the third consecutive day. At 2pm, the mercury hit 36.1 degrees - the highest May temperature since 1963. The regional temperature in Tai Po's Tai Mei Tuk reached 37.1 degrees at 1.30pm, the highest among all districts.

The Information Services Department appealed to the public to avoid prolonged activities outdoors so as to prevent heat stroke.

"If engaged in outdoor work or activities, wear a wide-brimmed hat and light-colored, loose-fitting clothes . . . Stay in shaded areas as much as possible. Drink plenty of water and avoid beverages containing caffeine or alcohol . . . If you feel sick, consult a doctor right away."

The Department of Health reminded those who are obese, chronically ill, old and those in charge of the very young to stay alert. It said people should avoid vigorous and prolonged activities such as hiking and trekking.

The Home Affairs Department said 19 temporary night heat shelters would remain open until 8am today. Emergency medicine specialist Lee Ka-hing said if anyone witnesses a hiker suffering a heat stroke, they should place them in the shade. "They can then remove the hiker's outer clothing, splash cold water on them and fan them so as to lower their body temperature," he said.

erin.chan@singtaonewscorp.com