World News for Students of English

21-08-2025 07:00

Ryan Wardwell, 46, from Long Beach, survived two days trapped behind a waterfall in California’s Seven Teacups.

While rappelling down the falls on August 10th, he was thrown off his ropes by extreme hydraulics and forced behind a cascade of the Kern River. When he failed to return to his car that evening, police began searching using drones, infrared equipment, and helicopters. Their first day was unsuccessful due to rough terrain and darkness, but the next day, a drone located him behind the waterfall.

Wardwell was alive but exhausted, dehydrated, and stranded in a cold, wet cave.

A California Highway Patrol helicopter crew then lifted him to safety in what authorities called a stunning survival story. He was treated for minor injuries and reunited with his family. Video of the dramatic rescue, showing the helicopter struggling against water and foliage, spread widely on social media and news outlets. Officials reminded the public to know their limits when exploring white-water rivers such as the Seven Teacups.

Difficult words: rappel (to go down a rock or wall using a rope), hydraulics (the strong force and movement of water), foliage (the leaves of trees and plants).

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