Tourists in the Northern Territory are dicing with death by failing to take sufficient water on hikes during the severe heat, authorities warn.
On Friday, three adult visitors from the Philippines with a three-year-old child suffered heat stress after failing to take enough water while on a walk at Standley Chasm in 45C heat.
Over the weekend, a Melbourne couple took a wrong turn at Simpsons Gap and ended up on a longer trail with little more than half a litre of water between them.
With temperatures in the centre expected to stay above 40C for the rest of the week, rangers have asked visitors to re-think their walk plans altogether.
"Walking during extreme heat can be dangerous even deadly," acting Park and Wildlife Operations Director Kristen Hay said.
"Even if you are an experienced walker you must take precautions when visiting Territory parks.
"Walking in hot weather can result in heat exhaustion, which may progress to a potentially fatal heat stroke."
Ms Hay said walkers should always carry plenty of water and food and must drink regularly, at least one litre each hour.
"Tell someone where you are going and plan your route well including downloading maps and other offline tracking apps prior to your departure," she said.
"If you must go for a walk, beat the heat and stay cool, stay hydrated and stay alive."
