Related
More than 160 hikers and backpackers have been rescued by Tuesday morning in the High Sierra after being trapped by the Creek Fire for several days.
The California Army National Guard has been sending Chinook and Black Hawk helicopters out in Fresno County since the fire first broke out. While crews were able to rescue dozens of families camping in the Mammoth Pool area over the weekend, accessing rugged backcountry trails has been a much more delicate operation.
"The air crews have made several attempts both during the day and also at night to get into those individuals that are in need of being rescued," said Col. David Hall. Officials had put out word to stranded hikers to shelter together in specific areas. "All of them are very, very difficult to get to."
The smoke greatly reduced visibility in the area and crews had to call off their search late Monday night. But rescue flights began again Tuesday in the predawn darkness and made several successful airlifts.
Joe Ebright and his two teenaged sons were among the people rescued.
One solace to people waiting to hear from their loved ones is that there are safe places in the area to shelter, including the Vermilion Valley Resort where dozens of evacuees gathered Monday.
"They’re safe for now and we’re just hoping that it stays that way and they’re able to get home safely," said Lindy Budd Monday night. Her 19-year-old brother Riley was among the names of evacuees waiting at the resort.