Grünau Mountain Rescue saves 18-year-old who lost his way on the Schermberg north face

Background: Getting lost on the north face

As the mountain rescue service reported, it is still unclear whether the 18-year-old had been misled by an app or a platform. "Ob von einer App oder Plattform fehlgeleitet, ist noch unklar", the mountain rescue service stated. After the mountaineer could no longer be reached by phone, he was located shortly before 11:30 p.m. using the transmitted coordinates.

The rescue teams themselves had to find the way. Since there were strong winds at around 1,800 meters, a winch rescue was not possible. For the rescue, the emergency medical helicopter C14 from Niederöblarn was requested. In addition, the police helicopter from Salzburg with a thermal imaging camera was deployed.

Difficult rescue in wind and clouds

Around 2 a.m., a helicopter reached the operational area, but had to abort the mission after several approaches due to the wind conditions. The mountain rescue service then began the secured descent through the rocky terrain at 2:26 a.m. A shock troop of the mountain rescue service had already reached the lost hiker at 1:19 a.m., as the operational information shows.

The rescue teams kept the 18-year-old secured on the rope at all times and accompanied him down through the rocky terrain. After a multi-hour operation in the dark and at temperatures around five degrees Celsius, the young man was finally brought down to the valley uninjured.

The incident throws a spotlight on the risks of mountain tours in bad weather and with inadequate equipment. The mountain rescue service pointed out that, despite the adverse conditions, the young man did not suffer any serious injuries. The operation lasted several hours and ended in the early morning hours.

Emergency services work hand in hand

The exact circumstances that led to the lost hiker are still being investigated. The authorities are checking whether navigation apps had directed the mountaineer onto an unsuitable route. The mountain rescue service used the incident to once again point out the importance of solid tour preparation and carrying the alpine emergency number 140.

Operations leader Martin Trautwein praised the coordinated collaboration of the rescue organizations involved. In addition to the Grünau Mountain Rescue, the helicopter crews from Niederöblarn and Salzburg, as well as the police, took part in the rescue operation. After receiving initial medical care, the 18-year-old was handed over to his relatives.

The case is a reminder of the dangers that can lurk in the Alps even in summer when mountaineers underestimate the weather development. In the Totes Gebirge, sudden drops in temperature, fog, and gusts of wind can bring even experienced hikers into difficulties. The mountain rescue service recommends always adapting tours to the current conditions.