The Weather Channel forecasts temperatures in Sunland Park to soar above 100 degrees Fahrenheit from Monday to Wednesday, with a slight drop to the upper 80s before rising again to the mid-to-upper 90s by the end of the week.
Situated in the state’s southeastern region, Sunland Park shares borders with Texas and the Mexican state of Chihuahua. Since March, the Sunland Park Fire Department has recorded 13 migrant fatalities. However, officials believe this figure only represents incidents directly involving SPFD. Overall in the area, there have been at least 60 heat-related deaths attended by Border Patrol and other agencies.
Rescues are ongoing as migrants who manage to climb over the border walls face harsh desert terrains. Chief Medrano described the areas as desolate, making it difficult to determine the exact number of rescues due to involving multiple departments and authorities.
Chief Medrano mentioned that the low humidity levels ranging from 7-10% in Sunland Park increase the risk of dehydration among migrants. The department operates with a team of 24 firefighters, typically having six per shift plus additional staff personnel.
Medrano highlighted the complexity of search-and-rescue missions, citing instances where Border Patrol may handle bodies without reporting to local authorities. The department steps in when needed for tasks like transporting victims for further examination.
Most migrants encountered are not Mexicans but hail from countries like Venezuela, Ecuador, and Colombia, according to Medrano.
Ice baths have become a crucial part of their rescue methods to combat heat-related injuries effectively. The SPFD uses innovative techniques like placing individuals with elevated temperatures in ice-filled body bags to rapidly reduce their internal temperature.
Despite successful interventions, the department often loses track of migrants once they are taken to the hospital, leaving uncertainties about their outcomes.
Medrano emphasized the challenges faced by migrants transitioning from tropical climates to the harsh desert environment, with temperatures exceeding 105 degrees and scorching sand reaching 125 degrees.
He underscored the physical toll of the journey, describing it as taxing and exacerbating dehydration among migrants already struggling to adapt.