Overview
- Search teams initially treated the mission as a recovery until infrared-equipped aircraft and drone footage on Aug. 12 confirmed Wardwell was alive behind the falls
- A CHP H-40 helicopter lowered a Tulare County deputy into a cavity behind the waterfall and hoisted Wardwell to safety in under 10 minutes
- Wardwell suffered only minor injuries, dehydration and likely hypothermia before being treated at a nearby landing zone and reunited with his family
- The Seven Teacups route is rated Class 3C, denoting strong currents and technical challenges that require ropes, wetsuits and specialized canyoneering skills
- Officials warned that social media has boosted visitor numbers and often misrepresented the site as a casual hiking spot, increasing risks for unprepared adventurers