A search is actively underway for Alec Luhn, a 38-year-old American journalist who went missing while hiking on a Norwegian glacier in Folgefonna National Park. His absence was first noted by family members after he failed to catch his scheduled flight home to England on Monday. Luhn had embarked on his hike from Odda, in southwestern Norway, on July 31 as part of a family vacation, with plans to explore the area’s stunning landscapes. His wife, Veronika Silchenko, has taken to social media to appeal for information, encouraging anyone who may have seen him during his journey to reach out. Luhn’s family initially felt reassured by his experience as an outdoorsman and noted he might not have had cell service, making them hesitant to raise alarms early on.
Described as an award-winning climate journalist, Luhn has written for prominent publications, including The Guardian and National Geographic. He has a deep passion for exploring Arctic environments, driven by his concern about climate change and its impact on glaciers and snowy landscapes. Silchenko shared that their last communication occurred on Thursday when Luhn sent her a picture from Odda. Her words highlighted his dedication to capturing the realities of climate change, underscoring why he chose such a rugged location for adventure.
Despite the family’s confidence in Luhn’s capabilities, the situation took a concerning turn when he did not arrive for his flight. Authorities were quickly notified, and a search operation commenced. Initial efforts included a helicopter search; however, adverse weather conditions forced police to suspend operations on Monday night. As Tatjana Knappen of the Western Police District explained, safety was a priority as the worsening weather conditions made it unreasonable to continue searching at that time.
The search efforts resumed on Tuesday, with police, volunteer rescue teams, sniffer dogs, and drones being deployed to locate Luhn. The search teams, equipped with local knowledge of the terrain, faced significant hurdles due to the unpredictable weather. The Norwegian Red Cross stated that operations were ongoing, demonstrating the urgency of the situation and the commitment to finding the missing journalist.
As news of Luhn’s disappearance circulated, the climate journalism community expressed concern, recognizing the profound implications of his work on raising awareness about climate change. His research not only informs the public but also connects deeply with those affected by natural changes, making his absence particularly distressing. The search continues amid complexities posed by severe conditions, drawing attention to both the risks inherent in such explorations and the resilience shown by search teams working tirelessly to bring him home.
The story of Alec Luhn highlights the intersection of adventure, commitment to environmental issues, and the personal elements of family and safety. As search efforts persist, the hope remains strong that Luhn will be found safe, serving as a reminder of the challenges faced by those who venture into remote natural landscapes in pursuit of understanding and documenting the rapidly changing climate.
