Two New York hikers struck by lightning near the summit of Torreys Peak required a high-altitude helicopter hoist—the highest ever recorded in Colorado—prompting urgent warnings about summer mountain safety.
At a Glance
- Two men were struck by lightning near the 14,272-foot summit of Torreys Peak on June 12
- One hiker became unresponsive while the other was injured; rescue teams maintained phone contact throughout
- A Colorado National Guard Black Hawk helicopter hoisted the critical victim from ~14,200 ft—surpassing the previous Colorado rescue record of 13,700 ft
- Approximately 30 rescuers and multiple ground teams worked into the night; the second hiker was airlifted around midnight
- Officials warned that afternoon thunderstorms and thin air pose serious dangers and urged climbers to start early
Lightning Strikes Before Rescue Reaches Summit
Rescue efforts began around 5 p.m. when the hikers, off-route on a technical path, alerted the Alpine Rescue Team and guided ground crews via phone. They reached the summit approximately an hour later—only to be struck by lightning moments after, according to AP News. One hiker immediately became unresponsive, prompting an emergency deployment of ground teams from aerial and mountain rescue units.
Record‑Breaking Helicopter Hoist
In severe conditions with lightning and hail, two conventional helicopters were grounded. A Colorado National Guard Black Hawk penetrated the storm, reaching ~14,200 ft. It hoisted the critical victim—the highest such rescue in state history—before airlifting him to a Denver burn unit, as reported by the New York Post. The second hiker was evacuated around midnight.
Watch a report: Hikers survive high-altitude lightning strike on Torrey’s Peak.
Lessons for Climbers and Rescuers
Experts stress that Colorado’s thin air significantly reduces helicopter lift, making rescues above 13,700 ft rare and dangerous. According to People, Alpine Rescue Team leader Jake Smith advised climbers to summit early and descend before afternoon storms, especially on east-facing routes where weather systems may not appear until too late.
Colorado officials said the dramatic operation highlights both the heroic capabilities of modern mountain rescue and the vital need for awareness, experience, and preparation in high-altitude terrain. Proper planning and weather vigilance could prevent future near-misses—or worse.
