Anthony Yates
Authorities rescued a man from California last weekend after he got stuck behind a waterfall on the Kern River for two days. The section of the river was in Sequoia National Forest, just two hours from Sequoia National Park.
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According to a news release by the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office, officials received a report about a missing person on August 11. He was last seen at the top of the “Seven Teacups” waterfalls near the North Fork of the Kern River on August 10. Deputies were reportedly notified that 46-year-old Ryan Wardwell from Long Beach had planned to rappel down the waterfalls. However, he never returned to his car.
Officials began an extensive search using aircraft with infrared cameras. They managed to narrow down Wardwell’s possible location, but the fading light conditions and challenging terrain meant rescuers had to postpone the operation until the following day.
Authorities Located The California Man The Next Day
The Tulare County Sheriff’s Office reveals that multiple teams, including the California Highway Patrol (CHP), assisted with the rescue effort. Once a dive team and a search and rescue team were nearby, they used a drone to check behind a large waterfall in the area. The drone reportedly found Wardwell alive and responsive. He explained that the extreme force of the waterfall forced him to come off his rappel lines, trapping him.
While the drone had located its target, rescuers still needed to traverse the waterfall to get to him.
Authorities released footage of the rescue effort along with their statement. Ultimately, the search and rescue team used a CHP helicopter to drop down behind the water. The operation was successful, and officials transported Wardwell to a local hospital. Despite his extended stay, emergency services only treated him for minor injuries and dehydration.
The Sheriff’s Office urged the public to be aware of the environment and their own capabilities around white water rivers. “Stay safe, Stay smart, stay alive,” The post concludes.
Last week, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park warned visitors not to feed the bears. The National Park Service explained that they received three reports of guests breaking the rules in a single week, and one resulted in a citation. Authorities reminded readers that feeding the wildlife can carry a fine of up to $5,000 and even jail time.
