Overview

• Kathryn McKee, 51, and Beata LeLacheur, 54, were stranded on Mount Washington, the tallest peak in the Northeast, during a severe snowstorm on Sunday.
• The hikers, both experienced and equipped with winter gear, lost the trail in whiteout conditions with temperatures dropping to -2°F and winds of 50-60 mph.
• After struggling for an hour in chest-deep snow and spruce traps, the hikers called 911 for assistance around 6 p.m., but they were unable to locate the trail despite being just 34 feet away.
• Rescuers reached the hikers around 1:50 a.m. Monday, finding them alive but suffering from cold weather injuries, including frostbite, after six hours of exposure.
• The hikers were warmed in emergency shelters before descending the mountain with rescuers, who emphasized the importance of preparedness in New Hampshire's unpredictable winter conditions.