On the afternoon of August 13, a female climber (21) and her brother (25) became disoriented while descending Three Fingered Jack when heavy fog blanketed the area. [The standard south ridge route on Three Fingered Jack (7,844’) has a couple of hundred feet of scrambling and low fifth-class rock just below the top.] Due to near zero visibility, the pair got off route and reached a point where they were unable to ascend or descend safely. They called for help in late afternoon. A rescue team located the siblings at 1:25 a.m., and, after assessing their medical status, airlifted the female climber due to a possible shoulder injury. Team members descended with the male climber. (Source: Corvallis Mountain Rescue Unit.)

ANALYSIS

Conditions in the mountains change rapidly, and climbers should prepare by researching a route thoroughly and carrying adequate clothing, equipment, food, and water for an unexpected night out. (Source: Corvallis Mountain Rescue Unit and The Editors.)