What's happened
Two New York men were struck by lightning while hiking Torreys Peak in Colorado, leading to a dramatic helicopter rescue. One man remains hospitalized in fair condition, while the other was treated and released. This incident marks a significant event in Colorado's rescue history, believed to be the highest-altitude helicopter rescue recorded in the state.
What's behind the headline?
Key Insights
- Rescue Operations: The rescue operation involved approximately 30 rescuers and is noted for its altitude, occurring at 14,200 feet, which is believed to be a record for helicopter rescues in Colorado.
- Weather Awareness: The hikers' lack of experience and awareness of changing weather conditions highlights the risks associated with high-altitude hiking, especially during summer afternoons when thunderstorms are common.
- Safety Precautions: This incident underscores the importance of proper preparation and awareness of weather patterns for outdoor activities, particularly in mountainous regions.
- Impact on Hiking Community: The event may lead to increased discussions about safety protocols and guidelines for hikers in Colorado, potentially influencing future regulations or educational campaigns.
What the papers say
According to the NY Post, the two men were airlifted after being struck by lightning, with one in critical condition. The Independent reported that the rescue was challenging due to altitude and weather conditions, emphasizing the need for awareness among hikers. AP News noted that the incident reflects the dangers of sudden thunderstorms in the Rockies, which can develop rapidly and pose serious risks to climbers.
How we got here
The incident occurred on June 12, 2025, when the two men, inexperienced hikers, called for help after getting off course. They were struck by lightning shortly after reaching the summit, prompting a large rescue operation involving a Colorado National Guard Black Hawk helicopter.
Go deeper
- What safety measures should hikers take?
- How common are lightning strikes in the Rockies?
- What are the records for helicopter rescues in Colorado?
Common question
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What Should Hikers Know About Lightning Safety?
Lightning strikes can pose a serious threat to hikers, especially in mountainous areas like Colorado. Recent incidents highlight the importance of understanding lightning safety while enjoying the outdoors. Here are some key questions and answers to help you stay safe while hiking during stormy weather.
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What Should Hikers Know About Lightning Safety?
Lightning strikes can pose a serious threat to hikers, especially in mountainous regions like Colorado. Recent incidents highlight the importance of understanding lightning safety and the risks associated with hiking during thunderstorms. Here are some key questions and answers to help you stay safe while enjoying the great outdoors.
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What Happened During the Lightning Strike Incident in Colorado?
On June 12, 2025, a dramatic lightning strike incident occurred on Torreys Peak in Colorado, involving two inexperienced hikers from New York. This event not only highlights the dangers of hiking in lightning-prone areas but also showcases the remarkable efforts of rescue teams. Below, we explore key questions surrounding this incident and what it means for outdoor safety.
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Denver ( DEN-vər) is the capital and most populous city of the U.S. state of Colorado. Officially a consolidated city and county, it is located in the South Platte River valley on the western edge of the High Plains, and is just east of the Front Range
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Colorado is a state in the western United States encompassing most of the southern Rocky Mountains as well as the northeastern portion of the Colorado Plateau and the western edge of the Great Plains.
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The Colorado National Guard consists of the Colorado Army National Guard and Colorado Air National Guard, forming the state of Colorado's component to the United States National Guard. Founded in 1860, the Colorado National Guard falls under the Colorado.