Elderly couple rescued from Porterville hiking trail after suffering heat distress
Elderly hikers rescued and airlifted to safety after getting lost in extreme heat on the 22 Waterfalls trail near Porterville.
Image: Wilfred Turner/ WSAR
An elderly couple had to be airlifted to safety after becoming disoriented and suffering heat-related distress on a hiking trail near Porterville during soaring temperatures over the weekend.
Rescue teams were activated on Sunday afternoon along the 22 Waterfalls hiking route after the pair called for help when the 68-year-old husband began showing signs of heat exhaustion and dehydration.
According to Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) spokesperson David Nel, the couple had started their hike at about 9am but later lost the trail, worsening their situation in the intense heat.
“The couple had also lost the trail, further compounding the situation. Recognising the early signs of heat exhaustion and calling for help sooner can prevent situations from escalating,” Nel said.
He added that the decision to call for help likely prevented the incident from becoming more serious.
A Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS and Air Mercy Service rescue helicopter was dispatched, with a small team deployed to locate the couple.
The man was treated on scene by a paramedic before being airlifted to a nearby landing zone for further medical care. His wife was also flown to safety.
During the operation, rescuers identified a second couple on the same route who also required assistance. After the initial evacuation, a medic hiked in to reach them, providing food and water before guiding them safely off the trail.
All hikers were safely off the mountain shortly after 6pm.
Nel urged outdoor enthusiasts to take extra precautions during hot weather conditions.
“Start early, carry sufficient water, plan your route carefully and turn back before conditions become overwhelming,” he said.
The rescued hiker is expected to recover.