TEENAGER FIGHTS FOR LIFE: 18-Year-Old Hiker Trapped in Blizzard at Victoria’s Mount Buller as Crews Launch Desperate Rescue Mission
- A teenager is clinging to life after being trapped in a blizzard at Victoria’s Mount Buller, with temperatures plummeting to a bone-chilling -10C.
- Emergency services were alerted to the 18-year-old’s plight at 8.45pm on Tuesday, and crews have been working tirelessly to reach him.
- The young hiker has been forced to spend the night in freezing conditions, with police and rescue teams racing against time to save him.
Panic set in when the teenager failed to return from his hike, prompting a desperate search and rescue operation at the popular ski resort.
As the clock ticked on, the 18-year-old’s situation became increasingly dire, with the mercury dropping to well below freezing.
But in a remarkable display of resilience, the young hiker managed to contact emergency services via satellite phone, and has been instructed to remain camped in place until help arrives.
Police have warned those travelling to the snow region to be prepared for the treacherous conditions, with a medium chance of snow showers forecast for the area.
“Police want to remind the community that the weather can change dramatically in the Alpines,” a spokesperson said. “We urge everyone to check conditions and warnings prior to their trip.”
This is not the first incident at Mount Buller in recent days, with a 49-year-old hiker rescued just hours earlier after becoming stranded in the snow.
The rescue effort has highlighted the importance of being prepared for the unpredictable weather conditions in the region, and serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of venturing into the wilderness unprepared.