The SOS went out; help took hours

A satellite SOS does not remove the risks of desert heat.

On 13 August 2024, a resort employee climbed Panamint Butte and attempted a canyon descent requiring technical equipment he did not have. After retracing his route, he ran out of water and reported losing consciousness and sliding down scree. He activated his satellite device’s SOS at about 6 pm. Agencies received the request around 7:40 pm. Helicopter availability and an equipment alarm delayed assistance. A Navy helicopter rescued him around 11:15 pm. This was a local recreational hiker, not a confirmed tourist.

Outcome: The hiker was rescued with severe dehydration; no later hospital outcome is supplied.

Lesson: Plan water, route and equipment, and avoid low-elevation hiking in extreme heat. Emergency devices do not guarantee prompt rescue.

Sources

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What weather should I pack for in Chile / Santiago?

Retold in our own words from the official release. People are not named. A past report, not a current warning or a judgement on the country.