Authorities have reported that three climbers, including two Americans and one Canadian, are feared dead following a failed summit attempt. The search operations have faced significant weather-related challenges, leading officials to conclude that the climbers may have fallen on a treacherous ridge.
Three Climbers Presumed Dead After Aoraki Mt Cook Incident
Three Climbers Presumed Dead After Aoraki Mt Cook Incident
Search efforts for missing climbers in New Zealand’s tallest mountain, Aoraki Mt Cook, are now transitioning to recovery mode.
The missing climbers, identified as Kurt Blair (56) from the U.S., Carlos Romero (50), also American, and an unnamed Canadian, were last seen after they embarked on their climb on Saturday. They were reported missing on Monday after they did not arrive for their scheduled flight out of the region. Police have indicated that their investigation suggests the climbers fell while attempting to navigate a ridge.
Speaking to the media, Aoraki Area Commander Inspector Vicki Walker noted that the search efforts have been severely affected by inclement weather. Drones and helicopters were deployed in the search, revealing signs that the climbers had crossed the slopes below the Zurbriggen Ridge, including personal items such as clothes and energy gels.
The Zurbriggen Ridge presents a challenging Grade Four climb, characterized by the necessity for skilled mountaineering experience. According to sources, both Blair and Romero were seasoned climbers with substantial backgrounds in mountaineering.
A heartfelt tribute from the Silverton Avalanche School recognized Blair as a cherished figure in Colorado’s San Juan mountains, celebrated for his composed demeanor and commitment to mountain safety. Romero, who was also highly esteemed in the climbing community, was remembered by the SWS Mountain Guides as a passionate guide and mentor, previously affiliated with the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory.
Authorities have opted not to disclose the name of the Canadian climber, respecting the family’s wishes as they continue efforts to manage recovery operations. Situated in New Zealand's South Island, Aoraki Mt Cook rises to 3,724 meters (12,217 feet) and is frequently targeted by climbers from around the globe.
Speaking to the media, Aoraki Area Commander Inspector Vicki Walker noted that the search efforts have been severely affected by inclement weather. Drones and helicopters were deployed in the search, revealing signs that the climbers had crossed the slopes below the Zurbriggen Ridge, including personal items such as clothes and energy gels.
The Zurbriggen Ridge presents a challenging Grade Four climb, characterized by the necessity for skilled mountaineering experience. According to sources, both Blair and Romero were seasoned climbers with substantial backgrounds in mountaineering.
A heartfelt tribute from the Silverton Avalanche School recognized Blair as a cherished figure in Colorado’s San Juan mountains, celebrated for his composed demeanor and commitment to mountain safety. Romero, who was also highly esteemed in the climbing community, was remembered by the SWS Mountain Guides as a passionate guide and mentor, previously affiliated with the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory.
Authorities have opted not to disclose the name of the Canadian climber, respecting the family’s wishes as they continue efforts to manage recovery operations. Situated in New Zealand's South Island, Aoraki Mt Cook rises to 3,724 meters (12,217 feet) and is frequently targeted by climbers from around the globe.
