Two hikers from Massachusetts are recovering after they were stranded on Mount Washington overnight. The hikers were caught in dangerous conditions on Sunday, February 3rd, and had to spend several hours in freezing temperatures before being rescued.
The hikers, who were about 5,000 feet above sea level, got stuck in deep snow and couldn’t see clearly because of a whiteout – a weather condition where the snow and fog make it hard to tell the ground from the sky. The temperatures were extremely cold, with the wind chill making it feel much colder. With snow up to their chests, the hikers were unable to move or find their way out.
At around 6 p.m. on Sunday, emergency crews were called after the hikers sent out an urgent message. Due to the heavy snow and harsh weather, getting to them was difficult, so rescuers used a Snowcat, a special vehicle designed for snow, to help reach the hikers at the mountain’s summit.
Once rescuers found the hikers early Monday morning, around 2 a.m., they were suffering from cold-related injuries. One of the hikers needed immediate medical treatment and was taken to the hospital. The other hiker was able to stay with the rescue team and did not need to go to the hospital.
The situation on Mount Washington was challenging. The temperatures were at or below zero, with strong winds reaching up to 60 miles per hour. These weather conditions can make hiking on the mountain very dangerous, even for experienced hikers.
Mount Washington’s Dangerous Conditions
Mount Washington is known for its unpredictable weather, and it holds the record for the strongest wind gust ever recorded in the United States. Hikers who visit the mountain need to be well-prepared for sudden changes in weather. The area can experience heavy snow, high winds, and freezing temperatures, which can lead to dangerous situations, just like the one the hikers faced.
Rescue teams encourage anyone planning to hike on Mount Washington or other similar mountains to check weather conditions before heading out. It is also important to bring proper clothing, gear, and a way to call for help in case of emergencies.
The quick response from rescuers saved the hikers’ lives, but the situation also serves as a reminder of how dangerous mountain hiking can be when weather conditions change suddenly.
(Source : wgme.com)