News - Local
Hiker struck by lightning in Rocky Mountain National Park
Posted: Aug 5, 2010 10:12 AM by Bea Karnes, News First 5
Updated: Aug 5, 2010 10:14 AM
Officials at Rocky Mountain National Park say a man hiking Longs Peak was struck by lightning but has no memory of being hit.
The 31-year-old from Minnesota had numerous burn injuries when he was found by hikers on Wednesday. He said he had hiked the mountain the day before and then spent an unplanned night in the backcountry. He said he couldn't recall how he had been injured but, based on his injuries, rescuers determined that he had been struck by lightning.
The man was able to hike down the mountain with assistance. On the way, he and a trail crew had to wait out an intense storm marked by more lightning along with hail and heavy rains. When the weather improved, a helicopter was able to fly him to a hospital.
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