Hiker swept 300 feet in flash flood climbs tree to escape, Utah sheriff says

A flash flood triggered by a sudden thunderstorm swept a hiker 300 feet down a wash in Utah, sheriff’s officials reported.

The hiker climbed a tree to escape and called authorities for help on Saturday, Sept. 6, the Kane County Sheriff’s Office said in a news release.

The hiker and a companion were hit by the flood while navigating Hurricane Wash canyon, deputies said.

The first hiker, who had minor injuries, was evacuated by a Utah Department of Public Safety helicopter, deputies said. His companion was found and confirmed to be safe.

The storm also left people trapped in seven vehicles on nearby roads after overflowing creeks caused washouts, deputies said.

Deputies and rescuers worked into the night to clear obstacles so the vehicles could safely reach a nearby highway, sheriff’s officials said.

Kane County is about a 300-mile drive south from Salt Lake City near the Arizona border.