A Wisconsin tourist who went missing for 48 hours in the dense jungle of Puerto Rico has been safely rescued, authorities confirmed. The man, identified as 32-year-old Daniel Carter, was found exhausted but alive in El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System. His disappearance sparked an intense search operation involving local authorities, park rangers, and volunteers.
Tourist Goes Missing in El Yunque National Forest
Carter, an avid hiker from Milwaukee, was vacationing in Puerto Rico when he decided to explore the El Yunque trails alone. According to his family, he set out for what was supposed to be a short solo hike on Monday morning but failed to return by nightfall.
Concerned about his absence, his hotel staff alerted local authorities, who immediately launched a search-and-rescue operation. The Puerto Rico Emergency Management Agency (PREMA) and the U.S. Forest Service worked together to locate Carter, with help from local volunteers familiar with the forest’s challenging terrain.
Search Efforts Intensify in Dense Rainforest
El Yunque National Forest spans nearly 29,000 acres and is known for its rugged landscape, unpredictable weather, and dense vegetation. Rescuers faced heavy rainfall, slippery trails, and steep cliffs during their efforts to locate Carter.
“The thick jungle canopy and difficult terrain made it extremely challenging,” said a spokesperson from Puerto Rico’s Department of Natural and Environmental Resources. “We used drones, search dogs, and teams on foot to cover as much ground as possible.”
Authorities said Carter was last seen on a trail near La Mina Falls, one of the forest’s most popular hiking areas. His family and friends worried that he might have strayed off the main path and become disoriented.
Rescue Team Finds Carter After 48-Hour Ordeal
After two days of searching, a team of rescuers finally spotted Carter near a remote section of the forest, roughly three miles from where he had started his hike. He was found dehydrated and weak but conscious.
Carter reportedly survived by drinking water from a small stream and rationing a granola bar he had in his backpack. He later told authorities that he had lost his footing on a steep section of the trail and became disoriented while trying to find his way back.
“I thought I was going to be stuck there forever,” Carter told reporters after his rescue. “I kept walking, but everything looked the same. I couldn’t tell where I was going.”
Paramedics treated him for dehydration and minor scrapes before transporting him to a local hospital for further evaluation. Doctors confirmed that he was in stable condition and expected to make a full recovery.
Officials Warn Tourists About Solo Hiking Risks
Following Carter’s rescue, officials issued a reminder about the dangers of solo hiking, particularly in unfamiliar and remote locations.
“We strongly advise visitors to hike with a partner, carry a GPS device, and inform someone of their plans before venturing into the rainforest,” said a park ranger with the U.S. Forest Service. “Cell service is unreliable, and trails can be deceiving, especially after heavy rain.”
El Yunque National Forest attracts thousands of visitors each year, many of whom are drawn to its stunning waterfalls, lush landscapes, and diverse wildlife. However, the unpredictable weather and dense foliage can make navigation difficult for even experienced hikers.
Authorities urge tourists to stick to marked trails, bring adequate supplies, and avoid hiking alone in case of emergencies.
Community and Volunteers Praised for Rescue Efforts
Carter’s family expressed immense gratitude to the search-and-rescue teams and local volunteers who assisted in finding him.
“We can’t thank them enough,” said Carter’s sister, Emily. “The people of Puerto Rico went above and beyond to help bring him home safely. We are forever grateful.”
Local residents and hikers played a crucial role in the operation, sharing their knowledge of the forest and helping authorities navigate the dense terrain. Their efforts were instrumental in ensuring Carter was found before his situation worsened.
Conclusion
While Carter’s ordeal was harrowing, his story serves as a cautionary tale for adventurers planning to explore unfamiliar landscapes. His survival was due in part to his ability to find water and stay calm, but also to the quick and determined response from Puerto Rican authorities and volunteers.
El Yunque National Forest remains a beautiful but challenging destination, and officials continue to stress the importance of preparation, awareness, and safety when hiking in the area.
For more information on visiting El Yunque and staying safe while hiking, visit the U.S. Forest Service’s official website.
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