A climber from California, Zubayir Kazi, 24, shared the experience of surviving a harrowing 500-foot slide down Mount Shasta. He lost his supplies and sustained serious injuries during the incident, which occurred after he reached the summit on September 10 during his first attempt at climbing in icy conditions.
“Everything I had just slipped from my hands, and I found myself tumbling down the mountain,” Kazi recalled.
Kazi later explained that he lost his food, water, phone, and flashlight. This left him isolated and unable to call for help. His thoughts became pretty singular, focused on one thing: getting lower. He felt that staying put could lead to a dire fate. “If I fall asleep here, I’m not going to make it,” he said.
According to the U.S. Forest Service, Kazi lost control while trying to slide down the snow and ice-covered Avalanche Gulch. He suffered significant cuts and foot injuries.
Swelling forced him to take off his boots. He crawled through the night until he eventually reached Horse Camp Cabin. His friends had reported him missing after they lost contact with him, triggering a large search effort. The next day, another hiker discovered Kazi in the cabin and gave him food and water before rescue teams arrived.
Kazi has since said that he experienced extensive skin and nerve damage, along with serious internal issues. Doctors advised him he could have died within hours without help. The Forest Service commended him for knowing his route and informing friends about his plans while also stressing the importance of carrying backup emergency equipment, having enough daylight, and being prepared for self-rescue.
This experience has really reshaped Kazi’s perspective on climbing. “It’s crucial to fully account for all safety requirements and considerations when taking on a hike like this, and I’d advise against going solo,” he reflected.
