Boston Marathon runners wilted under a hot sun this year
While Boston Marathon spectators were likely basking in the 70-plus degree weather on race day, the unusual warmth made it that much more difficult for runners to cross the finish line.
As temperatures reached the mid-70s on Monday, marathoners were struggling to power through the heat, with many needing wheelchairs and medical assistance, according to WBZ.
Water stops were available along the route for runners in need of hydration. The Newton Fire Department offered its assistance as well, transforming fire hydrants into misting stations to help passing marathoners cool down.
This weather is great for spectators & we’ve deployed some misting stations to cool down the #BostonMarathon runners pic.twitter.com/gSXjXEk3BF
— Newton Fire (@NewtonFireDept) April 17, 2017
The 2017 Boston Marathon has been the second warmest in 10 years, behind the 2012 Boston Marathon, which reached a sweltering 87 degrees. More than 4,000 runners dropped out of the race that year due to the heat.
Apparently being a water station volunteer has its perks–like the elite men’s race winner grabbing a cup from you as he heads toward victory.
https://twitter.com/AidanBuckley/status/854002185872396288
