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On a hot hike, which sign points to heat stroke rather than heat exhaustion?

Body temperature above 103°F with confusion points to heat stroke.

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  1. Cool, pale, clammy skin
  2. Heavy sweating and thirst
  3. Temperature above 103°F and confusion ✔

Why: Heat exhaustion often brings cool, pale, clammy skin and heavy sweating. Heat stroke means the body is overheating: above 103°F, hot red skin, a strong fast pulse, and confusion. That's a 911 emergency.

Huh, didn't know that: The National Weather Service lists heat stroke skin as hot, red, dry or damp, so sweating does not rule it out.

The dad joke
What did the thermometer say to the hiker? You've given me so many degrees.
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References

Answer: Temperature above 103°F and confusion. Heat exhaustion often brings cool, pale, clammy skin and heavy sweating. Heat stroke means the body is overheating: above 103°F, hot red skin, a strong fast pulse, and confusion. That's a 911 emergency.

  1. Heat Illness (National Weather Service) www.weather.gov/safety/heat-illness
    Body temperature above 103°F, hot, red, dry or damp skin, rapid and strong pulse
    Checked 2026-10-08.

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Test yourself in the game

Outdoors & CampingA Scout is confused, red-faced and very hot after a summer hike. What's your first move?Outdoors & CampingYou find a hurt hiker by the trail. What is the very first thing to check?Outdoors & CampingWith heat exhaustion, what does a person's skin usually feel like?

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