AI DRONE RESCUES LOST HIKERS IN UNDER 5 HOURS

The two men, both in their 20s, were reported missing at 7pm Tuesday after veering off a walking track near Jindabyne, New South Wales. Fire and Rescue NSW deployed a thermal imaging drone to locate the hikers in the mountainous terrain. The drone detected body heat signatures and identified a mobile phone's red light signal, enabling rescuers to pinpoint their exact location. The AI-assisted search significantly reduced response time compared to traditional ground-based rescue operations. The technology proved effective in the challenging conditions of the national park, where rough terrain and darkness typically complicate search efforts. The successful operation marks a notable advancement in emergency response capabilities. The use of thermal imaging combined with mobile phone detection demonstrates how AI-powered drones can enhance rescue missions in remote areas. Fire and Rescue NSW has not indicated whether the technology will become standard protocol for future search operations.