Slide kills hiker amid ‘unprecedented’ conditions across California, officials say

Don Sweeney
·3 min read
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An avalanche of rocks and melting snow swept away three hikers on a California mountain, killing one, rescuers reported.

The hikers were descending Split Mountain in Inyo County after reaching the summit Sunday, July, 2, when the slide took place, Inyo County Search and Rescue said on Instagram.

A helicopter flew rescuers to Red Lake, about 2,000 feet below the hikers, because of road closures and the steep trail, rescuers said.

The rescue team climbed to the injured hikers, one of whom had died from his injuries, and brought the two survivors to the lake to be airlifted to safety, rescuers said.

The team camped overnight to retrieve the third hiker’s body the next day, rescuers said. A California Highway Patrol helicopter tried to recover the body but failed.

Two rescuers returned to the slide and carried the body down to Red Lake, where it was airlifted out by the CHP helicopter team, the team said.

Warm temperatures are causing “very unforgiving snow conditions,” rescuers wrote, adding that melting snow can cause sudden rockfalls.

“It’s critical to recognize that conditions this year are unprecedented with the amount of runoff we’re seeing in creeks and rivers and the volume of snow still left to melt in the backcountry,” the Inyo County Office of Emergency Services said on Instagram.

Six people have died in Inyo and Mono counties this season “in tragic incidents involving snow, swift water, and extreme heat,” the office said.

Split Mountain is a 14,064-foot high peak in the Sierra Nevada near Big Pine.

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..

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