VIRGINIA — A hiker was airlifted to a hospital Tuesday afternoon after sliding down an icy embankment while hiking in Botetourt County, according to local officials.
The Botetourt County Department of Fire and EMS said rescue crews were dispatched at approximately 12:49 p.m. to assist the hiker, who had slid about 300 feet down an embankment covered in ice formed from lingering snow.
Officials said the terrain and icy conditions made access difficult. Rescue teams hiked through a creek and rugged terrain to reach the individual. The hiker was then transported by utility terrain vehicle to a landing zone, where an air ambulance took the person to a hospital. The extent of the injuries was not released.
Fire and EMS officials issued a safety reminder urging hikers to take extra precautions during winter conditions, including wearing proper footwear with good traction, staying on marked trails, informing others of hiking plans, and carrying a charged phone and emergency supplies.
