At first it was light.

Within minutes, it became heavier.

The ground that had already been unstable became even more slippery.

The rescue team had to pause.

It was frustrating, but necessary.

Continuing without reassessing the conditions could put everyone at unnecessary risk.

The rescuers checked their equipment again.

They communicated with one another.

They adjusted their positions.

The rain continued.

But the team remained focused.

There was no room for panic.

Every Person Had a Role

One of the most important lessons from difficult rescue operations is that success rarely depends on one person.