American journalist Alec Luhn, who went missing while hiking in Norway’s Folgefonna National Park, has been located alive. The Norwegian Red Cross confirmed that Luhn was discovered by a helicopter crew and is currently receiving medical care.
His wife, Veronika Silchenko, expressed immense relief, stating, “We are very, very happy! Many thanks to everyone in Norway who has helped to find him,” when she spoke to a local news outlet.
Luhn sustained some leg injuries during his ordeal, as noted by Svein Buer, an emergency manager with Hardanger police. The 38-year-old climate journalist from Wisconsin was reported missing by his wife on Monday after he failed to catch a flight home. Silchenko mentioned that the last time she heard from Luhn was on Thursday while he was starting his hike. Due to limited phone service in the area, her concern grew only after several days.
The search commenced on Monday and rapidly intensified by Tuesday, with a significant number of volunteers mobilized, including specialized climbing teams and drone support to assist in the challenging conditions caused by heavy rainfall. Ingeborg Thorsland, a spokesperson for the Norwegian Red Cross, described the search area as vast and difficult to navigate under the circumstances.
Luhn is recognized for his work with major publications such as National Geographic, The Guardian, The New York Times, and The Atlantic. He is currently residing in London, having previously lived in Moscow and Istanbul.
This incident highlights the risks involved in outdoor activities and underscores the dedication of rescue teams and community volunteers in difficult situations. Luhn’s survival serves as a reminder of hope and the importance of community efforts in the face of adversity.