Hikers on Mount Ann rescued after severe weather destroyed their shelter

A group of three tourists, including three men and one child, went hiking at Mount Ann in Tasmania, Australia, over the weekend. Weather warnings were put in place, but the group continued on their way.

During the storm, the tents used by the tourists were destroyed, leaving them without adequate shelter. Due to the terrible weather it was impossible to go outside.

According to Tasmania Police social media pageThe tourists called for help on Sunday at about 10:30. Rescue teams were dispatched to search for the group despite the stormy weather. To assist in these efforts, Westpac Tasmania Rescue Helicopter has joined forces.

At about 2:30 p.m., search teams including a police rescue officer and a flight paramedic found the group of tourists. However, extracting the group from the wilderness took several hours.

“Severe weather warnings have been issued in recent days, including for this area, and given these forecasts, it is remarkable that walkers have decided to continue,” police officials wrote on social media.

“Although the team was well prepared with the necessary equipment, failure to recognize the risks associated with these warnings put the team and responding search and rescue personnel in danger,” they explained. “Police again remind those out and about to monitor weather warnings and consider the impact of weather on their activities.”

Mount Anna sits at 4,669 feet and has an exposed summit that requires skilled walking. Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service notes that this area is particularly known for sudden and extreme weather changes.

All tourists, regardless of location, should plan to pack the Ten Essentials and constantly check the weather forecast. The rescue operation not only puts tourists at risk, but rescue teams also put their lives in danger during the search, officials involved in the mission said.