Inyo SAR Incident 4/21 Mt. Locke

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Inyo Co Sheriff's Dept:

On Saturday, April 12, at 12:30 PM, Inyo County Search and Rescue (Inyo SAR) responded to a call for a skier with a leg injury. The subject was located at approximately 11,000 feet in Wahoo Gulley on Mt. Locke, south of Mt. Humphreys and near Bishop, CA.

Due to warm temperatures and the lack of an overnight freeze, there was a significant risk of wet loose avalanches, posing a hazard to both rescuers and the patient. Recognizing these dangers, the patient’s group began slowly moving the patient downhill.
Fortunately, CHP helicopter H-40 from the Central Division Air Operations was able to assist. H-40 landed first at the Bishop Airport to offload equipment and pick up an Inyo SAR rescuer. The helicopter then flew to Wahoo Gulley, where the rescuer was hoisted onto the snow at around 10,600 feet elevation.

Once on the ground, the rescuer prepared the patient for transport using a "hot seat," a large fabric sling designed for carrying individuals in a seated position. The helicopter hoisted the patient to safety and transported them to Bishop Airport, where they were handed off to an ambulance. H-40 then returned to the gulley to extract the Inyo SAR rescuer.

We extend our gratitude to the patient’s group for their efforts in helping the patient descend and creating a stable work area in the snow, making the rescue safer for everyone involved. Special thanks to CHP H-40 for their invaluable assistance in this operation.

This rescue also highlights the importance of avalanche safety awareness. The recent warm temperatures have significantly weakened the Sierra snowpack, increasing the risk of wet loose avalanches. Please check weather conditions and recent temperatures before venturing out and be prepared to adjust your plans accordingly.

Inyo SAR is an all-volunteer, professional nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization operating in cooperation with and under the authority of the Inyo County Sheriff's Office. Our ability to provide life-saving search and rescue services depends on generous donations. Learn more or donate at inyosar.com/donate.