Hiker trapped in wilderness spends night in frigid temperatures, Washington rescuers say
A hiker spent the night trapped in the freezing cold, waiting to be rescued from the mountains in Washington, deputies said.
The 36-year-old from Seattle used a satellite communication device to call for help at about 9:30 p.m. Jan. 5 near the base of Dragontail Peak and Isolation Lake near Leavenworth, the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office said in a Facebook post.
He told rescuers he was “trapped and freezing,” deputies said.
Rescuers couldn’t reach the man by foot that night because of avalanche risk, so a helicopter tried to reach him, deputies said.
But the helicopter couldn’t because of weather conditions.
The next day, rescuers tried to find the man again by helicopter but were forced to turn around twice because of the weather.
By 4:50 p.m. that day, a helicopter hoisted him from the area, rescuers said. He was taken to a hospital with cold-related injuries. Temperatures were expected to be below zero that night, rescuers said.
Leavenworth is about 120 miles east of Seattle.
How to be prepared while hiking
If you’re planning to hike, the National Park Service says there are 10 essentials you should take:
Navigation: Pack a map, compass and a GPS system. Make sure you study your route beforehand and understand how to use the tools.
Sun protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat can help protect your skin and eyes from UV rays.
Insulation: A jacket, hat, gloves, raincoat and thermal underwear can help you be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions.
Illumination: A flashlight, lantern and headlamp can create light if you get stuck in the dark — and don’t forget to pack extra batteries.
First-aid supplies: It’s a good idea to have a first-aid kit on hand while hiking. Check the expiration date on items before you pack them.
Fire: Matches and a lighter can help start fire to act as an emergency signal in times of need.
Repair kit and tools: Duct tape, a knife, screwdriver and scissors can be helpful if items break during your hike or you need assistance.
Nutrition: You should pack an extra day’s worth of food in case something goes wrong. Park officials recommend having “salty and easy to digest snacks.”
Hydration: You should drink water often and before you feel thirsty if you’re hiking in hot weather. Keeping your body hydrated is “of utmost importance,” park officials said.
Emergency shelter: Packing a tent, space blanket, tarp and bivy can help you be prepared if severe weather breaks out or your plan takes a turn.
This story was originally published January 9, 2024 at 1:55 PM with the headline "Hiker trapped in wilderness spends night in frigid temperatures, Washington rescuers say."
