Korean Mountaineer To Survive Yosemite Avalanche

Yosemite, CA -- A 38 year old Korean mountaineer was hit by an avalanche Monday afternoon at Half Dome.

Ranger Adrienne Freeman says the unidentified individual was climbing with a party of six when the avalanche occured at approximately 4:20pm.

Rescuers made contact with the victim Monday but continued avalance activity in the area made it unsafe for rescuers to enter. In addtiion language barriers and unsettled weather and terrain have added to the complexity of the situation.

At this hour Freeman says the rescue party has reached the climber and an attempt will be made to fly him out in a CHP helicopter. The climber reportedly has suffered several broken bones.

Written by bill.johnson@mlode.com