Stranded woman rescued from Three Sisters Wilderness after becoming hypothermic

SISTERS, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Search and rescue volunteers brought a 56-year-old Silverton, Ore., woman to safety Wednesday after she became hypothermic while hiking near Golden Lake in the Three Sisters Wilderness Area.

Deschutes County 911 received a distress signal at 12:51 p.m. through a Garmin SOS activation. Search and Rescue members hiked approximately 6.5 miles through high winds, rain and snow before finding the hiker at 5:42 p.m.

Search and Rescue team members provided the woman with dry clothing and warming blankets before helping her walk back to the trailhead.

After returning to the trailhead, the woman drove into town and stayed overnight to rest and recover. Officials reported she suffered no injuries other than cold exposure.

The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office recognized the Search and Rescue volunteers for their work during deteriorating weather conditions. The agency reminded backcountry hikers to check weather forecasts, prepare properly for changing conditions, inform others of their plans and carry a reliable satellite communication device.