Home / Disasters and Accidents / Rattlesnake Season Starts Early: Woman Airlifted After Simi Valley Bite
Rattlesnake Season Starts Early: Woman Airlifted After Simi Valley Bite
1 May
Summary
- A woman was airlifted to a hospital after a rattlesnake bite.
- This marks the seventh reported rattlesnake bite since mid-March.
- Early season activity is attributed to recent heatwaves and warm winter.
Paramedics airlifted a woman to a local hospital after she was bitten by a rattlesnake while hiking on Thursday. The incident occurred along Long Canyon Trail in Simi Valley, prompting an emergency response that included ground and air crews.
This marks the seventh rattlesnake bite reported in the region since mid-March. Experts attribute the earlier-than-usual start to the rattlesnake season to recent heatwaves and an uncharacteristically warm winter, which has increased the activity of these reptiles.
Authorities are urging hikers to exercise caution, stay on marked trails, wear protective clothing like boots and long pants, and to be aware of their surroundings, especially near brush, rocks, and logs. In case of a bite, the advice is to remain calm, limit movement, and call 911 immediately.
U.S. Forest Service officials previously noted that rising temperatures lead to more active snakes and advised keeping pets close and staying alert. They also highlighted that snakes are often found near trails, in brush, or around natural debris.
