Daring Overnight Rescue Saves Stranded Hikers on Mount Washington.
In a daring overnight rescue operation, two experienced hikers were saved from the treacherous slopes of Mount Washington after becoming stranded in whiteout conditions. Kathryn McKee and her hiking partner, both from Massachusetts, were overwhelmed by chest-deep snow and high winds while attempting to hike Mount Monroe and Mount Jefferson. Despite their winter hiking experience and appropriate gear, they struggled to find the trail and were forced to huddle together for warmth. A multi-agency rescue effort, involving New Hampshire Fish and Game, Mountain Rescue Service, and other teams, was launched to reach the stranded hikers. The rescue crews battled through extreme weather conditions, including -2 degrees and 50-60 mph winds, to locate the hikers, warm them, and bring them to safety in a nearly 12-hour operation. The successful rescue underscores the importance of preparedness and the bravery of the rescue teams in the face of extreme adversity.