Woman survives three days lost in woods after car fire

In Michigan, a 74-year-old woman named Nancy Bloomquist was reported missing after a visit to a casino. This incident occurred while she was traveling home to Norton Shores from Little River Casino, approximately 95 miles to the north. During her journey last Thursday, her vehicle became disabled and subsequently caught fire, leaving her stranded. Although she escaped the flames, Bloomquist became disoriented while trying to return to her SUV and ended up in a remote wooded area. Over the next three days, freezing temperatures and rain presented life-threatening challenges as she sought shelter against a downed tree. Authorities began searching for Bloomquist following a tip regarding a burned vehicle that matched the description of her own. A drone assisted in the search efforts, ultimately leading the Mason County Sheriff's Office to discover her approximately 150 yards from her SUV. When found on Sunday, Bloomquist was conscious and able to converse with rescuers but was suffering from exposure due to the harsh weather conditions. Medical personnel transported her to a hospital for treatment of her injuries, primarily related to the exposure and hypothermia caused by the severe temperatures during her time lost. Bloomquist's survival is being described as miraculous, considering the frigid conditions that included temperatures below 22 degrees Fahrenheit, compounded by rain and occasional light snow throughout the weekend. The efforts by local law enforcement and use of advanced search technology highlighted their commitment to finding her. Sheriff Kim C. Cole remarked on Bloomquist's resilience and expressed gratitude for the successful outcome. This incident raises awareness about the dangers of potential mishaps during travel, especially in adverse weather conditions, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and technology in search and rescue operations. It's important for travelers to ensure they are adequately prepared for unexpected situations, including always having communication devices and a plan for emergencies.