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Four German mountain climbers conclude their expedition with a thrilling rescue operation amidst fog and chill

Stranded Germans on Grossvenediger Face Challenges Amid Fog and Cold, Rescue Efforts Successful Thanks to Local Innkeepers and Mountain Rescue Team

Four German hikers conclude their mountain expedition with a thrilling rescue amidst fog and...
Four German hikers conclude their mountain expedition with a thrilling rescue amidst fog and freezing temperatures

Four German mountain climbers conclude their expedition with a thrilling rescue operation amidst fog and chill

In the heart of the Hohe Tauern National Park, a group of four German mountaineers found themselves lost near the Gamsspitzl (2888 m) last Saturday. The incident serves as a reminder of how quickly conditions in the high mountains can change, and how important it is for hikers to be prepared for unexpected challenges.

Elli and Stefan Zangerl, certified mountain guides and owners of the Warnsdorfer hut (2336 m), were among those who joined the rescue operation. The group had initially set off towards the Kürsingerhütte (2558 m), but were led astray by fog and a wrong junction.

The Grossvenediger area, where the incident occurred, is renowned for its challenging terrain and unpredictable weather. Mistakes in this region can have serious consequences, especially in poor visibility when markings can disappear quickly.

Around 6:30 PM, the mountain rescue stations in Neukirchen am Grossvenediger and Krimml were alerted due to the distress signal sent by the hikers via their navigation device. The signal was received by the police and forwarded to the Red Cross control center.

The rescue operation was challenging due to the poor weather conditions that prevented a direct approach to the scene. As a result, a difficult climb on foot was required. Despite these challenges, the rescue team, which included a police helicopter, a rescue helicopter, several alpine police officers, and 24 mountain rescuers in total, were able to locate the lost hikers in the darkness and provide first aid on site.

Elli Zangerl stated that it was natural for them to help the hikers, as they were their guests. She emphasized that they do not make a big fuss about helping those in need in the mountains. Fortunately, all four hikers were uninjured, but one woman was exhausted and hypothermic.

The rescue operation was completed around 2 AM, and the hikers were able to return safely. Incidents like this one happen repeatedly in the region, requiring mountain rescue services to keep training regularly. A video showing the training of mountain rescue services is available for those interested in learning more about the crucial work they do.

The names of the mountain guides who led the operation, alongside Elli and Stefan Zangerl from the Warnsdorfer Hütte, are not specified in the available search results. However, their quick response and expertise undoubtedly played a crucial role in ensuring the safe return of the lost hikers.

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