Crews are searching for a hiker who went missing on Mount Baldy amid a snowstorm over the weekend.
The missing woman was identified as Lifei Huang, 22, from El Monte, according to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.
On Sunday, Feb. 4, deputies received a call about the missing hiker at around 11:14 p.m.
Huang headed out on a solo hike at around 2 p.m. that day. Hours later, however, loved ones had not heard from her.
At around 2:30 a.m. early Monday morning, search and rescue crews headed up the mountain to search for Huang, but she was not located.
On Tuesday, crews headed out again and continued searching amid heavy snowfall. Crew members were eventually pulled off from the search due to avalanche risks, authorities said.
“Search and rescue personnel will remain at the trailhead and will resume searching when it is safe to do so,” said SBSD.
Officials are strongly urging the public to stay away from mountain activities during the dangerous storm this week.
“The weather has effectively buried the mountain in snow and it is highly likely hikers will get into trouble,” officials said. “Resources are stretched to their limits and hikers who get lost may have to wait long periods of time before help is available.”
Located in the San Gabriel Mountains, Mount Baldy presents acute dangers to hikers during the wintertime. In 2023, several hikers were found dead, including British actor Julian Sands, 65, after heading out for a hike in the area.
“Many hikers, experienced or novice, underestimate the steep terrain, unpredictable weather, and high winds that present themselves in our mountain areas,” officials warn. “Exposure to the elements and falls contributes to Mt. Baldy’s growing mortality rate and the risk of avalanches prolongs rescue efforts.”
The search for Huang continues. Anyone who may have seen the missing woman or has additional information is urged to contact the Fontana Sheriff’s Station at 909-356-6767. Anonymous tips can be provided to We-Tip at 1-800-782-7463 or online at wetip.com.
