American journalist Alec Luhn, who had been missing while hiking in Norway, has been found alive, according to the Norwegian Red Cross. Luhn was located near Folgefonna National Park by a helicopter crew. He is now receiving medical treatment.
His wife, Veronika Silchenko, expressed immense relief when she heard the news, stating, “We are very, very happy! Many thanks to everyone in Norway who has helped to find him.”
Luhn, a 38-year-old climate journalist originally from Wisconsin, was reported missing after he failed to board his flight home. His wife last spoke to him on Thursday, as he began his hike. Due to poor phone reception in the area, she became concerned only after several days had passed.
When rescue teams found Luhn at 11:34 a.m. on Wednesday, he was conscious but exhausted. He had some injuries to his legs, but was relieved to be discovered. Stig Hope, a volunteer with the Red Cross, noted how rare it is to find someone alive after such a long search, praising the effort put in by the teams involved.
The search began on Monday and intensified by Tuesday, involving specialized climbing teams and drones. Heavy rainfall posed challenges in navigating the vast area they covered. A spokesperson from the Red Cross reported that this was one of the largest search operations they had conducted, highlighting the dedication of the numerous volunteers.
Luhn has written for notable outlets like National Geographic, The Guardian, and The New York Times. Now based in London, his international experience gives him a unique perspective on climate issues.
This incident underscores the importance of preparedness and the potential dangers of hiking in remote areas. According to recent statistics, approximately 600 people are reported missing while hiking in Norway each year. It’s crucial for hikers to keep others informed of their plans and to stay cautious when venturing into nature.
For more detailed safety tips and guidelines for outdoor adventures, you can refer to the Norwegian Tourist Association.
