A 24-year-old climber from San Jose, California, has recounted his harrowing experience of sliding down Mount Shasta, a 500-foot fall that left him injured and without supplies.
Zubayir Kazi told NBC Bay Area that he reached the summit of Mount Shasta on September 10, during his first attempt to climb the mountain. However, things went wrong on his descent when he lost control and slid down the snow and ice-covered Avalanche Gulch. Kazi said everything he had with him, including his food, water, cellphone, and light, fell out of his hands as he slid.
As a result, Kazi was left alone and without a way to call for help. He suffered significant lacerations and injuries to his feet, which forced him to remove his boots due to swelling. Kazi then crawled through the night, trying to reach lower ground, and eventually made it to the Horse Camp Cabin.
Kazi's friends reported him missing after losing contact with him, prompting a multi-agency search. A hiker found Kazi inside the cabin the following day and provided him with food and water before rescuers arrived. Kazi was taken to a hospital and received treatment for his injuries, which included significant skin and nerve damage and serious internal complications.
According to the US Forest Service, Kazi's experience highlights the importance of climbers being prepared and carrying backup electronics, allowing enough daylight, and preparing to self-rescue.
NTC Report coverage is based on reporting from the original publisher.
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