More than 20 hikers were rescued from Mount Washington in New Hampshire on Saturday after they became trapped in severe winter conditions. Many of these individuals were described as "ill-prepared" and some showed signs of hypothermia, according to officials from the Mount Washington Cog Railway.

The hikers had reached the summit, which stands at 6,288 feet, but were unaware that summit services were unavailable and that the state park had closed for the season. Andy Vilaine, assistant general manager of the Cog Railway, stated that the train crew discovered several distressed hikers while heading to the summit. "They didn’t think they would be able to hike back down," Vilaine said. After assessing their conditions, he noted that many were showing early signs of hypothermia due to inadequate clothing, including non-waterproof layers and sneakers.

Temperatures near the summit on Saturday ranged from 15 to 18 degrees Fahrenheit, with wind chills dropping to between minus 5 and zero degrees. The train crew worked to accommodate the hikers, placing some in locomotive cabs with the heat on full blast to help counteract the effects of hypothermia. Vilaine remarked, "Had we not been able to assist the hikers with the one-way ride, there is little doubt in my mind that several more complex rescue efforts may have needed to be undertaken."

Following the rescue, New Hampshire State Parks issued a statement urging winter hikers to be responsible. They noted that multiple individuals had arrived at the summit unprepared for winter conditions and required assistance.

On Sunday, another hiker was rescued after becoming trapped in windblown snow near the summit. The 20-year-old from Rhode Island was on the upper reaches of the Tuckerman Ravine Trail when he alerted rescuers that his headlamp and cellphone were dying. Although he had done some research for his hike, officials stated he was still unprepared for the conditions he faced. Fortunately, he was found uninjured and expressed gratitude to the rescuers.

Officials emphasized the importance of being fully equipped for winter hiking. Lt. Mark Ober from the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department warned, "It’s literally a life or death situation if they go up there unprepared." Cris Hazzard, a professional hiking guide, advised that a few minutes of research before a hike, such as checking trail conditions or using hiking apps, can help prevent dangerous situations.

As winter conditions on Mount Washington began earlier this month, officials remind hikers to plan accordingly and prioritize safety when venturing into the high peaks of the White Mountains.