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Elevated body temperature is indeed a hallmark characteristic of heat stroke. This condition occurs when the body's thermoregulatory system fails, leading to a significant rise in core body temperature, typically above 104°F (40°C). This elevated temperature can cause serious cellular damage and lead to multiple organ dysfunction if not addressed promptly.

In the context of heat-related illnesses, other symptoms such as increased heart rate can be present, but they are not as definitive as the elevated body temperature. Excessive sweating usually occurs in heat exhaustion, while heat stroke often presents with a cessation of sweating and dry skin due to the body's ability to no longer cool itself. A decrease in blood pressure can be associated with circulatory shock in severe cases but is not a primary or defining characteristic of heat stroke. Thus, the elevation of body temperature stands out as the most critical and specific feature distinguishing heat stroke from other heat-related illnesses.