Victorian Police Recover Bodies of Two Women in High Country Blizzard

What's Happening?

Police in Victoria have recovered the bodies of two women found by hikers in the Victorian high country, near a remote hut at Nelse, approximately 400km north-east of Melbourne. The women, believed to have succumbed to severe hypothermia due to blizzard conditions, were discovered in an area where temperatures had dropped to -2.8 degrees with high winds and snow. Inspector Paul Hargreaves stated that the women might have been in the area for two or three days. The police are working to identify the women and contact their next of kin. The conditions on Mount Bogong are known to be treacherous, and it is suspected that the women were not adequately prepared for the weather.

Why It's Important?

This tragic incident highlights the dangers of hiking in remote and mountainous areas, especially during adverse weather conditions. It underscores the need for proper preparation and awareness of weather forecasts when engaging in outdoor activities. The recovery operation demonstrates the challenges faced by emergency services in accessing isolated locations and the importance of timely intervention. The case serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with outdoor adventures and the necessity for hikers to be equipped with appropriate gear and knowledge.

What's Next?

Victorian police are appealing for information from the public to assist in identifying the women, as there are no current missing person reports matching their description. The investigation into the circumstances of their deaths is ongoing, and police are hopeful of identifying the women soon. The incident may lead to increased awareness and caution among hikers and outdoor enthusiasts regarding the risks of extreme weather conditions.