Stranded climber in Snohomish County found unhurt

SEATTLE -- A search-and-rescue operation has been launched for a climber near Vesper Peak, south of the Big Four Ice Caves, according to the Snohomish County Sheriff's Office.

Officials said two climbers were in the area earlier Tuesday when they heard a woman call for help. The climbers made it out of the backcountry around 12:30 p.m. and went to the Verlot Ranger Station to notify authorities.

The sheriff's office helicopter crew found the woman in an area that was very difficult to access. The crew had to leave to get more supplies and personnel for the rescue operation.

Spokesperson Shari Ireton saaid the helicopter crew returned and lowered a radio to the woman late Tuesday.

"She told the crew that she cannot climb down because her two dogs are unable to navigate the steep and dangerous terrain and they are too big to be carried safely," said Ireton.

Ireton said a ground crew was also trying to reach the climber who was at an elevation of 4,000 feet.