Oklahoma City saw large crowds gather downtown to celebrate the OKC Thunder’s championship win. According to KOCO, temperatures rose into the 90s, and Emergency Medical Services Authority responded to over 100 heat-related incidents during the event.
Crowds moved through busy streets in the heat on Tuesday during the parade. Emergency Medical Services Authority teams were on standby and treated people affected by the high temperatures, with 24 individuals taken to hospitals. In a statement shared with The Oklahoman, officials had advised fans before the event to stay in the shade and use water stations along the route to help prevent heat-related issues.
The champions' parade brought people from many areas to downtown Oklahoma City. They celebrated together while facing extreme heat. OKC FOX reported that Emergency Medical Services Authority had many teams on site and responded quickly to help those affected. The number of emergency calls showed how severe the heat was.
Despite the heat, fans gathered to celebrate the OKC Thunder’s first NBA championship. "Yes, we know it's hot, but I had to come out for my favorite team. The OKC Thunder have been in my heart since 2012," Toryia Gaddis told KOCO. Emergency Medical Services Authority was on site to provide medical support, part of the city’s plan to maintain public safety during the event.
