Miraculous Mountain Rescue

Missing American journalist Alec Luhn, 38, has been found seriously injured in the mountains of Ullensvang municipality after a harrowing six-day ordeal. His wife, Veronika Silchenko, expressed overwhelming joy and gratitude upon receiving the news.

The rescue leader, Jan Åge Stengårdsbakken, 62, praised the immense efforts of the rescue crews who navigated treacherous terrain. “The reaction was absolutely overwhelming. It was joy and all. Pure gratitude,” Stengårdsbakken told VG. “It was a strong reaction and insanely nice to be able to convey the message that her husband was alive.”

Luhn was reported missing on Monday and had last been heard from on Thursday, July 31. His wife, who has traveled from their home in England to Bergen, stated, “We are very, very happy! A big thank you to everyone in Norway who has helped to find him.” Other family members also shared their immense relief online, with sister Drew Avanell posting, “We can breathe again.”

“Fantastic Achievement” in Extreme Conditions

Jan Åge Stengårdbakken, leader in the Odda Red Cross, described Luhn‘s survival as a “fantastic achievement,” especially given the challenging weather conditions that set in after Thursday. “He has had tough nights,” the auxiliary corps leader noted.

Luhn was discovered by a rescue helicopter just north of Nedre Buarbreen. He had reportedly seen helicopters multiple times in the days prior and attempted to signal them in vain. Poor flying conditions and wind had previously forced rescue efforts to halt.

“He has managed in the mountains in very bad weather for six days, without much food and drink. He has been very lucky,” confirmed Geir Arne Sunde, head of the trauma center and air ambulance physician. Luhn, who is described as being “all alone,” survived on chocolate bars and rainwater.

The rescue operation was one of the most comprehensive and demanding Stengårdbakken has ever participated in. “The search conditions have been demanding. We started the action on Monday. Buerdalen is demanding due to topography and terrain. It is rocky, steep and watch, no nice,” he explained to VG, detailing the rain, wind, and darkness faced by the teams.

Over 50 crews, including volunteers from the Red Cross, Norwegian People’s Aid, and the Norwegian Alpine and Rescue Group, along with rescue dogs and drones, were involved in the extensive search. “I am cryed by my co-workers in the Red Cross and the Rescue Service. I haven’t participated in such a big effort before. The efforts that were put into this action are formidable!” Stengårdbakken added, reflecting the team’s profound sense of accomplishment.

Luhn, a climate journalist who has written for The Guardian, The Atlantic, and National Geographic, is currently admitted to Haukeland University Hospital in Bergen. His ability to survive for six days in such harsh conditions highlights the resilience of the human spirit. For instance, a 2023 study in the journal Wilderness & Environmental Medicine found that survival rates in prolonged wilderness emergencies are significantly impacted by factors like preparation, psychological resilience, and access to water.