KARANGASEM, DEWATA.NEWS – A teenage hiker was safely evacuated by a joint search and rescue team after experiencing hypothermia while climbing Mount Agung in Karangasem Regency, Bali.
The hiker, I Ketut Yedija Karunia Arta (18), was rescued following an overnight operation carried out under challenging weather conditions, including heavy rain, strong winds, and dense fog.
Field Coordinator of Basarnas Karangasem, Putu Handika Bhayangkara, said the victim began the ascent with a friend on Monday (January 12, 2026) at around 13:30 WITA.
Near midnight, at approximately 23:40 WITA, the victim reported intense cold and was unable to continue the climb. Both hikers then contacted Rendang Police and decided to rest at Post 2 while waiting for assistance.
The incident report was received by the Denpasar Search and Rescue Office early Tuesday morning (January 13, 2026) at around 01:30 WITA. Eight SAR personnel from the Karangasem rescue post were immediately deployed, coordinating with Rendang Police and local mountain guides to speed up the operation.
After approximately four hours of searching, the victim was located at an altitude of around 2,400 meters above sea level in a conscious condition. However, evacuation could not be carried out immediately due to persistent heavy rain and thick fog.
“The victim was found alive, but evacuation had to be delayed because of severe weather and limited visibility,” Putu Handika said on Tuesday.
Once conditions improved, the joint SAR team and guides descended gradually. Despite continued weather challenges and difficult terrain, the evacuation was completed successfully. The victim reached the Pura Pengubengan command post at 10:05 WITA and was later handed over to family members.
Authorities reminded climbers to closely monitor weather conditions, carry proper equipment, and prioritize safety when hiking Mount Agung, especially during the rainy season.