Shropshire Student Missing in Romanian Mountains

A major search is resuming for George Smyth, an 18-year-old student from Shropshire, who has been missing in the Romanian Bucegi Mountains since November 23. The operation was temporarily suspended for seven days due to significant avalanche risks in the area. Rescue teams are preparing to access a remote zone on foot, aiming to recommence ground searches.

When Mr. Smyth contacted emergency services, he was described as disoriented and suffering from hypothermia. The conditions were severe, with strong winds and heavy snowfall. He was advised to turn back, but it remains unclear why he continued deeper into the isolated mountain terrain.

Search efforts are scheduled to restart on Thursday morning, weather permitting. The team hopes to reach the location where his backpack was discovered and begin active searching. The challenging conditions and remote nature of the area make this a difficult and perilous operation.