Journalist Reported Missing by His Wife After Failing to Board Flight Home After Solo Hiking Trip
A Wisconsin-born climate journalist, Alec Luhn, has been reported missing by his wife, Veronika Silchenko, after he failed to board his return flight home following a solo hiking trip to Norway’s Folgefonna National Park. Luhn, known for his love of glaciers and snow, embarked on a four-day backpacking expedition in southern Norway before going out of contact, triggering concern among his loved ones. His wife last spoke with him while he was hiking in Odda, Norway, on July 31, according to reports by the Washington Post, CBS News, and CNN. The Red Cross has joined the search efforts, facing challenging weather conditions to locate the missing journalist.
Initially, Silchenko did not panic when she was unable to reach her husband, attributing it to the remote location’s poor cell service and Luhn’s outdoor experience. However, as the days passed without his return, alarm bells started ringing. Concerned relatives contacted authorities in the U.K. after Luhn missed his scheduled flight back home on August 4. Silchenko took to social media to raise awareness about her husband’s disappearance, seeking any information that could aid in locating him.
Ingeborg Thorsland, a spokesperson for the Norwegian Red Cross, disclosed that around 30 volunteers, equipped with dogs and helicopters, were actively participating in the search operation. The rugged terrain of Folgefonna National Park has posed significant challenges to the search teams due to adverse weather conditions. Silchenko shared with CNN that Luhn’s fascination with the Arctic and his dedication to climate journalism motivated his solo hiking trip to explore glaciers and elements of the changing environment.
A seasoned journalist, Luhn’s work has been featured in prestigious publications such as The Atlantic, National Geographic, and The New York Times, reflecting his deep passion for environmental issues. His disappearance has sparked a wave of concern and support from the journalism community and beyond, with many rallying to aid in the search efforts. Silchenko fondly described her husband’s love for exploration, glaciers, and his commitment to covering climate-related stories in the face of environmental challenges.
As the search for Alec Luhn intensifies, friends, colleagues, and well-wishers are holding onto hope for his safe return. The collaborative efforts of search teams, volunteers, and support from various organisations underline the determination to find the missing journalist. The unfolding situation serves as a reminder of the risks associated with solo expeditions in remote areas, highlighting the importance of thorough planning and safety measures for outdoor adventures. The journalism community stands united in solidarity, hoping for a positive outcome in the ongoing search for Alec Luhn.