Two Washington hikers rescued after getting lost in heavy snow conditions

Atmospheric river to bring heavy rain, snow and 20-foot waves to Pacific Northwest

Light rain is forecast for much of the Pacific Northwest Wednesday ahead of a more powerful atmospheric river that is set to slam into the region later this week and into the weekend.

PEGGY’S POND TRAIL, Wash. – Two hikers in Washington state found themselves in a dangerous situation after getting lost during winter conditions on Sunday.

The two hikers were exploring the great outdoors in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness before they unexpectedly encountered heavy snow, according to the Kittitas County Sheriff’s Office.

The two contacted 911 over text message to report they were lost, wet, cold, and with no shelter besides a blue tarp.

The lack of shelter and exposure to frigid temperatures are serious safety concerns for first responders. According to the National Weather Service, when your body temperature sinks below 95°F, you have hypothermia, a serious health hazard that occurs when body temperature is lowered too much.

First responders trek five miles to rescue two lost hikers who got stuck in heavy snow conditions.

(Kittitas County Sheriff / Facebook)

Three search and rescue agencies were utilized to assist due to the difficult snowy conditions. The coordinated rescue efforts hiked 5 miles through the challenging terrain, where they successfully located the two uninjured hikers near Peggy’s Pond Trail. 

ATMOSPHERIC RIVER FORECAST TO BRING DELUGE OF RAIN, SNOW AND POTENTIAL FLOODING TO PACIFIC NORTHWEST

Three search and rescue agencies assist in rescuing two lost hikers in Washington.

(Kittitas County Sheriff / Facebook)

Officials were then able to guide the pair out of the wilderness safely. 

 "As we move deeper into fall, remember that mountain conditions can change fast," read a statement from the Kittitas County Sheriff. "If you’re heading out, always carry the 10 Essentials and plan for how you’ll stay warm and dry if your trip takes longer than expected."

KING AND KITTITAS COUNTY SAR TEAMS COORDINATE FOR PEGGY'S POND RESCUE.

(Kittitas County Sheriff / Facebook)

Ten essentials for outdoor travel and adventures

Here are 10 essential supplies experts say you should bring on your next outdoor adventure:

1. NAVIGATION – Map, compass, and GPS system.
2. SUN PROTECTION – Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat.
3. INSULATION – Jacket, hat, gloves, rain shell, and thermal underwear.
4. ILLUMINATION – Flashlight, lanterns, and headlamp.
5. FIRST-AID SUPPLIES – First Aid Kit.
6. FIRE – Matches, lighter and fire starters.
7. REPAIR KIT AND TOOLS – Duct tape, knife, screwdriver, and scissors.
8. NUTRITION - Food.
9. HYDRATION – Water and water treatment supplies.
10. EMERGENCY SHELTER – Tent, space blanket, tarp, and bivy.