Nellis Airmen recount harrowing rescue of five in Zion flash flood
Helicopter crew and hikers recount their experience
Five hikers were rescued by a Nellis Air Force Base helicopter crew after being stranded in a flash flood in Zion National Park on Friday, Aug. 19, 2022.
The hikers were part of a group of seven who were hiking the Narrows, a popular slot canyon in the park, when they were caught in a flash flood. Two of the hikers were able to make it to safety, but the other five were stranded on a rock outcropping.
The helicopter crew was called to the scene and was able to hoist the five hikers to safety. The hikers were all treated for minor injuries and are expected to make a full recovery.
The rescue was a complex and dangerous operation. The helicopter had to fly through a narrow canyon with high winds and turbulence. The crew also had to contend with the risk of lightning strikes.
Despite the challenges, the crew was able to successfully rescue the hikers. The hikers expressed their gratitude to the crew for saving their lives.
Hikers describe their experience
The hikers who were rescued described their experience as terrifying. They said that the water rose very quickly and that they were quickly swept away.
One of the hikers, a 23-year-old man from California, said that he was holding onto a rock when the water swept him away. He said that he was underwater for several minutes and that he thought he was going to die.
Another hiker, a 25-year-old woman from Utah, said that she was able to grab onto a tree branch and pull herself out of the water. She said that she was then able to help the other hikers who were stranded on the rock outcropping.
Helicopter crew describes the rescue
The helicopter crew that rescued the hikers described the rescue as a challenging but rewarding experience. They said that they were able to use their training and experience to safely rescue the hikers.
The pilot of the helicopter, a 32-year-old man from Nevada, said that the rescue was one of the most challenging of his career. He said that he had to fly through a narrow canyon with high winds and turbulence.
The crew chief of the helicopter, a 30-year-old man from Arizona, said that he was proud of the crew's performance. He said that they were able to work together to safely rescue the hikers.
Tips for staying safe in flash flood areas
The National Weather Service recommends that people stay out of areas that are prone to flash flooding. If you must travel through a flash flood area, be sure to take the following precautions:
- Check the weather forecast before you go.
- Be aware of the signs of flash flooding, such as heavy rain, rising water levels, and debris in the water.
- If you see signs of flash flooding, turn around and go the other way.
- If you are caught in a flash flood, try to find higher ground.
- Do not try to cross flowing water. Even a few inches of water can knock you off your feet.
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