On the evening of the 21st, seven hikers were trapped in the Wild Man Valley of Changyang County, Hubei, due to flooding. According to the latest information from the local fire department on the 22nd, rescuers have now located the trapped hikers and delivered water and food to them. After a brief rest, they will be led to safety.
According to one of the rescuers involved, at around 8:30 a.m. on the 22nd, contact was made with the trapped hikers. By around 11 a.m., rescuers found the hikers and confirmed there were no injuries. However, as the hikers were trapped in a rugged area, the rescue progress has been slow. Rescuers stated that they expect to evacuate the trapped hikers within three hours.
In light of the frequent incidents of hikers being trapped, the local fire department has reminded hikers heading to Yichang to choose daytime hours for climbing, avoid “night marches,” and steer clear of severe weather such as thunderstorms and strong winds. Before climbing, hikers should thoroughly research and plan their routes, and prepare lighting, communication, and emergency equipment. While hiking, they should mark their path along the way to prevent getting lost. In case of getting lost or trapped, do not attempt self-rescue blindly—call for help immediately.