We kept in constant contact with Eric, the guide from American Adventure Expeditions who was on the summit. He indicated that significant cervical cloud development was taking place just west of the summit. People turned around and began the hike back down the mountain. Although some people were disappointed about not getting to the summit, people understood the need for safety. Later that afternoon the storm finally broke over the mountain with a sudden downpour of heavy rain, high winds, and lightning strikes on the summit.
Storm clouds build as hikers head down.
Sharon Keld '80, Janine Pisani '92, Dan White '65 Safety was of paramount importance during the climb. The checkpoints, trained OA Leaders and guides, radios, first aid kits and emergency vehicles were all setup to make sure that we had ample resources in case of any problems. On the way back down the north slope trail, one one alum fell when his trekking pole slipped on a loose rock. People immediately rushed to his aid to stabilize him while the emergency team, Jeremy Archer '98 and Josh Roman '97 headed to the scene. Because of the fall and the possibility for a neck or back injury, it was determined that he needed to be evacuated on a backboard.