And it seems like Australia isn’t the only place dealing with ill-prepared hikers.
More than 20 poorly prepared hikers were rescued from Mount Washington in New Hampshire, USA, after becoming trapped in severe winter conditions without suitable equipment. Some had begun to suffer from hypothermia.
The group was discovered on Saturday by railway staff after they had reached the mountain’s 1900m summit.
Andy Vilaine, assistant general manager of the Cog Railway, said that most of the hikers were unaware that the summit facilities were closed for the season and that no state park services were available.
As a train made its normal ascent, crew members spotted several distressed hikers. The walkers told staff they did not believe they could make the return journey on foot.
Vilaine agreed after assessing their physical condition and appearance. Many were showing early signs of hypothermia brought on by wearing unsuitable clothing such as trainers and non-waterproof layers. Some admitted that this was their first ever hike.
Temperatures near the summit ranged from about -7°C to -9°C, with wind chill reducing it further to between minus twenty and minus eighteen. Crew members found space wherever possible on the train for the stranded hikers, placing some inside the locomotive cabs with the heating on full to help them recover.
Vilaine said the rescue served as a reminder that Mount Washington’s conditions can change rapidly and that all visitors should check seasonal closures and prepare properly before attempting the climb.