Sequoia National Forest, CA — A 46-year-old rock climber survived two days perched behind a roaring waterfall before being rescued earlier this week, authorities reported.
Climber Identified as Ryan Wardwell
The climber, identified as Ryan Wardwell of Long Beach, was reported missing by his family on Monday after he failed to return to his vehicle the previous night. Wardwell had been attempting to rappel down a waterfall in the Seven Teacups area of the Kern River, a popular spot located within Sequoia National Forest.
According to the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office, Wardwell was last seen on Sunday evening, but his family grew concerned when he didn’t return. First responders were dispatched the following day, but by the time they arrived, it was getting dark, and the team had to rely on infrared technology to locate a possible site where Wardwell might be.
Rescue Operation Begins
On Tuesday morning, swift-water dive teams joined forces with search-and-rescue personnel, using a drone to pinpoint Wardwell’s location behind the waterfall. He was found in an apparent cavity behind the cascading waters.
“Wardwell was found alive and responsive,” the sheriff’s office confirmed. “He told deputies he had come off his rappel lines and got trapped behind the waterfall because of the extreme hydraulics of the river.”
Hypothermia and Rapid Rescue
Deputy Craig Douglas, along with his colleagues and a California Highway Patrol helicopter crew, conducted the rescue. Douglas recalled, “They were able to lower me perfectly right next to him,” and with the help of a recovery suit, Wardwell was safely brought into the helicopter.
Despite his ordeal, Wardwell was checked at the scene and was released to his family later that day. Authorities suspect he may have been suffering from hypothermia, as temperatures were in the low 60s early Tuesday morning. The Kern River’s North Fork is known for its cold waters, which are primarily fed by the Sierra Nevada’s snowpack.
Warnings and Past Incidents
Authorities noted that Wardwell had rappelled the waterfall previously but emphasized that the spot can be dangerous despite his experience.
Sheriff’s Capt. Kevin Kemmerling told NBC News that Wardwell had traveled to the waterfall with a group of friends. However, they decided to retreat after determining rappelling would be too risky, and Wardwell continued alone.
This location has seen past tragedies, with three people drowning at roughly the same spot in August 2024.
Authorities strongly encourage those visiting the area to be aware of their environment and know their limitations, particularly when navigating whitewater.
“Always be aware of your environment and capabilities, especially when navigating whitewater,” the sheriff’s office warned.
For more details, visit the NBC News article here.
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