Two hikers were rescued from Catalina State Park in Tucson, Arizona on Saturday afternoon, highlighting the critical need for proper hydration and planning during extreme heat. The Golder Ranch Fire District reported that the hikers, who were found off-trail, had not brought sufficient water for their trek. This incident comes as a dangerous heatwave grips the Southwest, prompting warnings from officials.

The fire district strongly advises hikers to remain on designated trails, carry ample water, and begin their hikes early in the morning to avoid the most intense heat. This advice echoes recent tragedies, including the deaths of a Florida man and his stepson in Texas' Big Bend National Park due to extreme heat exposure.

Emergency responders at the scene where two hikers were rescued. (Golder Ranch Fire District)

With temperatures expected to remain dangerously high throughout the week, the National Weather Service in Tucson has issued an excessive heat warning through Tuesday evening for much of Southeast Arizona. Tucson International Airport recorded a scorching 111 degrees over the weekend. This intense heat extends across the Southwest, with parts of Texas experiencing over a week of above-average temperatures.

Catalina State Park, where the hikers were rescued. (Education Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

Big Bend National Park, where a separate heat-related tragedy occurred. (Education Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)