World News
Search and rescue team extracts stranded climber from narrow California mountain ledge
High winds prevented an aerial rescue, prompting a ground team to complete an overnight technical operation on Laurel Mountain.
The short version
- A climber became trapped on a six-inch-wide ledge at roughly 11,000 feet on Laurel Mountain after losing the route on August 22.
- Helicopter rescue efforts were blocked by wind gusts reaching up to 46 mph, necessitating a ground-based technical rescue.
- A 14-member search and rescue crew reached the climber using ropes and anchors, concluding the operation early the following morning.
Key facts
- The climber became stranded on a six-inch ledge at approximately 11,000 feet on California's Laurel Mountain after deviating from the Mendenhall Couloir route on August 22.[Fox News]
- The individual used a satellite device to request assistance after reaching terrain where moving forward or backward was unsafe.[Fox News]
- Wind speeds between 35 and 46 mph grounded helicopter rescue options, forcing emergency personnel to carry ropes and technical gear up the mountain on foot.[Fox News]
- The Mono County Sheriff Search and Rescue Team deployed 14 responders who logged almost 172 volunteer hours, concluding the rescue around 4:43 a.m. the following morning.[Fox News]