Two hikers from New York had a terrifying brush with death last week after getting struck by lightning near the summit of a 14,000-foot mountain in Colorado — and were saved in what may be the highest-altitude helicopter rescue in the state’s history.
The drama unfolded on Torreys Peak, a popular but challenging summit near Denver. The hikers had taken a more technical route and became disoriented — right as storms rolled in. And if you know anything about Colorado, you know afternoon lightning storms can hit fast and hit hard.
One of the men managed to call for help just after they were hit by lightning near the summit. He was unresponsive when rescuers arrived. A Colorado National Guard Blackhawk helicopter hoisted him up from 14,200 feet — an insane feat considering the altitude and terrain. He was rushed to a hospital burn unit and was in fair condition the next day.
The second hiker was found hours later, around midnight, with minor injuries. The helicopter couldn’t fully land but did a partial touchdown to bring him to safety.
Rescue teams say this operation likely set a new state record, beating the previous highest rescue altitude of 13,700 feet. One Alpine Rescue Team member reminded everyone: in the Rockies, storms move fast — and lightning doesn’t care what your hiking goals are.
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