Heroic helicopter rescues save hikers in the Western Cape mountains
A Wilderness Search and Rescue team member on a steep mountainside prepares a hoist point during a helicopter-assisted operation in the Western Cape.
Image: Craig Prinsloo/ WSAR
Two helicopter-assisted rescues were carried out within hours on Sunday after hikers ran into trouble in challenging mountain conditions, underlining how quickly routine outings can escalate into emergencies.
The first incident unfolded on a peak between Hermanus and Stanford, where an 83-year-old British hiker collapsed while hiking with a group of five in hot conditions. A small rescue team, including a Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS paramedic, was flown to the scene.
The hiker was treated for dehydration and heat exhaustion before being airlifted to a nearby landing zone and transferred by ambulance to hospital. The operation concluded at 1.09pm.
While Overberg teams were still busy with that rescue, another call came in from the Witels hiking trail near Ceres, a rugged, multi-day route marked by steep canyons and rocky terrain.
On day four of the hike, a 24-year-old hiker slipped and injured his ankle. Six members of the group climbed out of the canyon to find cellphone reception and alerted emergency services.
A Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS / Air Mercy Service rescue helicopter located the injured hiker and his companion, but difficult terrain prevented a direct landing. Rescuers were lowered nearby and hiked to reach them.
After on-site treatment, both the injured hiker and his companion were hoisted into the helicopter and flown to a nearby landing zone.
Rescue services thanked all teams involved in Sunday’s operations, saying their expertise and coordination ensured both hikers received timely care.
Get your news on the go, click here to join the Cape Argus News WhatsApp channel.
Cape Argus