LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — Burn surgeons across the Las Vegas Valley are reporting an increase in patients admitted to emergency rooms with severe pavement burns, as triple-digit summer temperatures push asphalt and concrete surfaces to scalding levels.
Specialists say the injuries can affect anyone exposed to hot outdoor surfaces.
‘Just like a frying pan’
“Well, out there like that, honestly, it’s just like a frying pan,” said Dr. Jay Coats the Medical Director of the Burn Center at Sunrise Hospital.
Surgeons warn that even brief contact with superheated pavement can result in catastrophic injuries.
“Just a couple of minutes of contact will give people a very deep third degree burn, ”said Dr. Rabia. Nizamani, Burn Medical Direcor at UMC.
In cases where individuals lose consciousness outdoors, the consequences can be severe.
“We’ve had some people who’ve unfortunately passed out and have been on the surface for 20, 30 minutes,” Dr. Coates said. “And I’ve had to amputate limbs because they just burn and cook right through to the bone.”
MORE ON FOX5: Clark County heat deaths rise to 46 in 2026 amid Las Vegas’ hottest stretch of the year
Wide range of patients affected
Burn centers across the valley are treating patients from a broad range of demographics. The unhoused population and pedestrians are among those most frequently affected.
Tourists are also at risk. “Tourists who fall asleep at the poolside and have, like, pretty severe second-degree burns just from laying in the sun,” one surgeon said.
The elderly and those with disabilities face heightened danger as well.
Children are similarly vulnerable, according to healthcare providers.
Record-breaking admissions
Sunrise Hospital officials said the volume of cases this summer is a cause for concern. Sunrise Hospital reported 27 pavement burn admissions in July alone. UMC surgeons treated 26 patients for the same injuries during the same period.
“So, I expect that we’ll break our record,” Dr. Nizamani said.
What to watch for
Medical intervention for severe surface burns can involve intensive surgeries and complex skin grafts. Surgeons say seeking immediate medical attention is critical.
Third-degree burns often destroy nerve endings, leaving the affected area numb rather than painful. Visible signs to watch for include bubbling skin and discoloration.
Health officials advise limiting time outdoors during peak heat hours, wearing protective thick-soled footwear, and using caution around hot surfaces.
Copyright 2026 KVVU. All rights reserved.
