BARTON COUNTY- Law enforcement authorities in Barton County are investigating possible death related to the extreme heat.

Just before 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, deputies were dispatched to a residence north of Great Bend in the Barton Hills subdivision to check the welfare of an individual at a residence, according to a media release.

Neighbors reported they had not seen the individual for a few days.

Sheriff’s deputies forced entry into the residence and discovered the body of a 49-year-old woman who had died.

Barton County Coroner, Dr. E. L. Jones, was called to the scene to assist with the investigation.

Initial investigation indicates the cause of death was hyperthermia combined with other health issues.

The Sheriff’s Office wishes to remind people to check on the elderly and people who have health issues that may not be able to tolerate the extreme temperatures expected for the next 10 days.

Anyone working outside is advised to drink plenty of water and avoid strenuous activity during the extreme heat of the day.

Hyperthermia and dehydration can induce heat exhaustion or heatstroke, which may be debilitating or fatal. Persons with other medical issues are particularly susceptible to these conditions.
The victim’s name is being withheld pending notification of family.