The National Weather Desk
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Hiker rescued from waterfall
Posted
August 15, 2025
Views
1,087
Likes
10
Engagement
0.92%
August 15, 2025
1,087
10
0.92%
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0:59Now PlayingThe Tulare County Sheriff's Office reported that 46-year-old Ryan Wardwell of Long Beach was last seen on August 10, 2025, at the top of the "Seven Teacups" waterfalls near the North Fork of the Kern River.
Wardwell had planned to rappel the waterfalls but failed to return to his vehicle that night.
Authorities launched an extensive search using aircraft equipped with camera and infrared technology, which helped identify Wardwell's possible location.
Due to the challenging terrain and late hour, a rescue plan was set for the following morning.
A drone was deployed to inspect behind a large waterfall, where Wardwell was discovered alive and responsive.
He explained to deputies that he had come off his rappel lines and became trapped behind the waterfall due to the river's extreme hydraulics.
A TCSO rescue team member was lowered into the water feature, secured Wardwell, and conducted a hoist extraction.
Wardwell was flown to a nearby landing zone, where medical personnel treated him for minor injuries and dehydration.
He was then reunited with his family.
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