Hypothermic Hiker Rescued After Ill-prepared Expedition on Mount Washington

A young man from Kentucky, Joabe Barbosa, was rescued on Thursday after facing difficulties on Mount Washington in New Hampshire. His ill-preparedness led to a series of mishaps, resulting in a hypothermic condition.

The Incident

Barbosa, 23, began his hike around 6:45 p.m. and, while off trail, fell and sustained head and face injuries, losing one of his sneakers in the process. As a consequence, he succumbed to hypothermia, prompting him to call 911 for assistance. Using GPS coordinates, officials from the New Hampshire Fish and Game located him in a drainage ravine at an approximate elevation of 3,600 feet.

Rescue Operation

Conservation officers and a volunteer EMT from Androscoggin Valley Search and Rescue managed to reach Barbosa close to 10:30 p.m. They provided him with essential supplies such as boots, food, warm drink, proper winter gear, and a headlamp before escorting him back to the trail. Subsequently, he received initial treatment for his injuries at the Cog Railway base station.

Preparedness and Advice

The NH Fish and Game Law Enforcement Division emphasized that Barbosa was inadequately prepared for the hike. Mount Washington, standing at 6,288 feet above sea level, presents challenging conditions, especially during winter.

Current Condition

Barbosa was later taken to Littleton Regional Health Care for further treatment. Details about his present condition were not immediately available.