Cries for help lead rescuers to ‘very cold’ hiker missing 12 hours, California cops say

A missing woman’s cries for help led to her rescue after 12 hours in “frigid” overnight conditions, California sheriff’s officials reported.

The woman became separated from a group of travelers when she decided to go on a solo hike near Loma Mar at 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 9, the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office said in a news release.

When darkness fell, her fellow visitors called the sheriff’s office after looking for her when she didn’t return, deputies said.

After deputies could not find the woman with the help of a drone and California Highway Patrol helicopter, trained volunteer searchers stepped in, officials said.

At 3:30 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 10, the 25 volunteers heard the woman crying for help after they called out her name, deputies said.

They found the woman at the base of a steep hill near Pescadero Creek, deputies said.

“The hiker was uninjured, but exhausted and very cold,” officials said. Rescuers provided first aid and helped her to safety in an hourlong effort.

“Their efforts saved this woman’s life,” Sheriff Christina Corpus said in the release.

Loma Mar is about a 50-mile drive south from San Francisco.

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 November 13, 2024 at 11:03 AM with the headline "Cries for help lead rescuers to ‘very cold’ hiker missing 12 hours, California cops say."