POWELL COUNTY, Ky. -- Four students were rescued due to weather conditions after camping out on top of a large rock in Kentucky.
The Powell County Search & Rescue stated on their Facebook page that a group of four students from Asbury College were stranded on top of Courthouse Rock on Monday morning.
The search and rescue organization said the students were camping out overnight on top of the rock and underestimated weather conditions. They woke up covered in snow and felt it was unsafe to climb down.
Team members with the search and rescue crew went to Tunnel Ridge Road, then went up to make contact with the students and gathered information on trail conditions. They said the safest way was to rescue them via helicopter.
The Kentucky State Police came in with a helicopter and successfully picked up the four students.
The students were then taken to Middlefork Fire Department for medical evaluation.
"This call was one of the most dangerous rescues ever attempted in the Gorge! Climbing Courthouse Rock is extremely treacherous even when conditions are favorable. Add in several inches of snow, icy rock faces, and a dash of wind; you have the perfect recipe for tragedy. Helicopters are inherently dangerous. When that is deemed the safest option, you know you’ve found yourself in potentially life or death situation," the Facebook post read.
The post continued, "When planning a winter trip to the Red River Gorge, be cognizant of the weather; road and trail conditions. Think about where you plan on hiking or camping and prepare an evacuation plan should conditions change. BE PREPARED! In situations like this, preparation isn’t just key, it can be lifesaving for both you and the rescuers you ask to come and get you!"
Photos of search and rescue
Assisting in the call was the Red STAR Wilderness EMS, Middlefork Fire/Rescue, Kentucky State Police and Powell County Emergency Medical Services.
