Grits
03-26-2014, 17:51
http://www.goblueridge.net/images/stories/news_graphics/frank%20vfd%20firemen.jpg (http://www.goblueridge.net/images/stories/news_graphics/frank%20vfd%20firemen.jpg)Avery searchers gathered at the Frank Volunteer Fire Department in far western Avery to take part in a search along the Appalachian Trail, an effort that then turned into a rescue. The effort launched late this morning after a call from the two hikers reporting that they were trapped by deep snow and were being beaten down by the combination of high winds and single-digit temperatures. Searchers headed out up Whitaker Branch heading to an intersecting point along the trail near Little Hump Mountain, while arrangements were being made for a NC State Patrol helicopter to possibly be employed, but just as searchers got to the area, the two missing hikers were found, then were helped to warm vehicles, then they were transported back to the Tennessee line by the Avery Sheriff’s Office after declining a medical check at an area hospital.
http://www.goblueridge.net/news/1/23721-hikers-rescued-after-night-in-snow-wind-cold
http://www.goblueridge.net/news/1/23721-hikers-rescued-after-night-in-snow-wind-cold