A hiker was rescued after being swept some 300 feet downstream during a flash flood near Escalante on Saturday, according to a press release issued by the Kane County Sheriff’s Office.

The hiker and a companion were navigating the canyon near Hole in the Rock Road when a sudden thunderstorm struck, deputies said. The man, who sustained minor injuries, managed to climb a tree to escape the rushing water.

He was ultimately rescued by the Utah Department of Public Safety Aero Bureau Division, who hoisted him from the canyon. He was then transported by medical helicopter to a nearby facility for further evaluation, according to the Sheriff’s Office. His companion was later located and confirmed safe.

The same storm triggered flash flooding in several tributaries flowing into Coyote Gulch, c

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