WASHOE COUNTY, Nev. – Rescue crews were dispatched Friday night after two hikers became lost while exploring the Mount Rose Summit area in northern Nevada. The hikers had gone off marked trails, prompting a search and rescue response as conditions deteriorated due to approaching snowfall and fading daylight, according to local officials.
Hikers Located as Weather Conditions Worsened
The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office said deputies were called in when the hikers failed to find their way back before nightfall. Search and rescue teams were activated because visibility was rapidly decreasing and snow was moving into the region, increasing the risk of exposure.
Officials confirmed that both individuals were quickly located, preventing the situation from escalating further. One of the hikers showed mild signs of hypothermia, a potentially dangerous condition that occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it. The individual was treated at the scene before rescue crews began the process of removing both hikers from the area.
The incident was later detailed by Fox Weather as part of its coverage on outdoor safety and winter rescue operations.
Search and Rescue Teams Use Sled and Ropes
Rescue officials said members of the search and rescue team secured the hypothermic hiker in a sled, wrapping the individual in a blanket to help preserve body heat. Ropes were attached to the sled, allowing rescuers to carefully pull the hiker through snowy terrain and down from the mountainous area.
Despite strong snowfall and challenging conditions, the coordinated effort allowed crews to safely escort both hikers out of the area without further injuries.
Understanding Hypothermia and Its Symptoms
Officials used the incident as a reminder of how quickly hypothermia can develop in cold and snowy conditions, especially at higher elevations.
Common early symptoms of hypothermia include:
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Shivering
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Confusion or disorientation
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Slurred speech
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Drowsiness
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Loss of coordination or fumbling hands
If untreated, hypothermia can become life-threatening, making rapid response critical in outdoor rescues like this one.
Officials Urge Caution for Backcountry Exploration
Search and rescue officials emphasized the importance of preparation when venturing into backcountry or mountainous areas, particularly during winter or transitional weather periods.
Authorities recommend carrying:
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Adequate food and water
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Warm clothing and emergency blankets
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A reliable navigation device such as GPS or maps
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Communication equipment when possible
They also advise staying on marked trails and monitoring weather conditions closely before setting out.
The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office said the successful rescue highlights the importance of early reporting and quick response when hikers encounter trouble in remote or hazardous environments.
