A hiking trip turned dangerous on Thursday when a person was struck by lightning at the top of Torrey’s Peak in Colorado. The rescue that followed was a massive effort involving several trained mountain rescue teams. This incident shows how quickly weather conditions can change in the mountains and the need for proper preparation.
Hikers Lose Their Way on Kelso Ridge
The Alpine Rescue Team got an emergency call just before 5 p.m. Two hikers had gone off track on Kelso Ridge, which leads to the summit of Torrey’s Peak. Team leaders stayed on the phone with the hikers, guiding them back to the correct trail. After about an hour, the hikers finally reached the summit.
Lightning Strikes Near the Summit
Just five minutes after reaching the top, one of the hikers dialed 911. His hiking partner had been struck by lightning and was not responding. The situation quickly turned critical. The call started a rescue mission involving five ground teams and a request for a helicopter hoist.
Late-Night Rescue Operatio
By 11 p.m., rescue teams from the Vail Mountain Rescue Group were able to reach the summit and hoist the injured hiker to safety. One of the ground teams stayed with the second hiker and helped him before he too was flown out around midnight. It was a long and tiring mission, but everyone worked together to get both hikers to safety.
Rescue Teams Share a Vital Messag
Alpine Rescue said this incident is a reminder that anything can happen in Colorado’s mountains. Weather can shift suddenly, and hikers must always carry the “10 essentials”—important items like water, food, warm clothes, and a flashlight. These can make a huge difference during emergencies and long rescues.
The team also said they are always ready to help anyone in need, whether it’s sunny or stormy. Their goal is to keep people safe in the mountains.
This lightning strike rescue at Torrey’s Peak is a strong warning for all mountain lovers. Adventures can quickly turn into emergencies. Being properly equipped and prepared is key.
The dedication of the rescue teams, especially in tough weather and late hours, shows how important it is to have trained people ready for such situations. Nature is beautiful, but safety must always come first when exploring high altitudes.