Homeostasis, or the maintenance of stable internal conditions, is crucial for human survival in extreme desert environments like Death Valley. When temperatures rise far above 100 degrees Fahrenheit, as they regularly do in Death Valley, the body engages various physiological and behavioral adaptations to keep its internal temperature regulated, such as sweating, slowing activity levels, and seeking shade. Prolonged exposure to the desert heat without properly hydrating, dressing appropriately, and avoiding strenuous activity can overwhelm these adaptations and potentially lead to hyperthermia, heat exhaustion, or even heat stroke.