Police are urging bushwalkers to be aware of weather conditions and forecasts following a rescue of two adults and an infant from the Overland Track at Cradle Mountain today.

The stranded party were found to be extremely cold and wet, but not physically injured.

Around 7.30am today police responded to an Emergency Beacon activated from the Overland Track, near Marion’s Lookout.

“The party began the Overland Track yesterday, and due to the severe weather conditions were forced to put up a tent and sit the night out,” said Inspector Steve Jones.

Members of Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Services, Western Search and Rescue and the Westpac Rescue Helicopter were deployed to the location shortly after the beacon activation.

Due to the dangerous weather conditions, the rescue helicopter was grounded at Dove Lake. Ground search parties reached the stranded group at around 10.25am and walked them out, reaching Dove Lake at 1.15pm.

“It’s timely to remind anyone planning on hiking to give serious consideration to weather conditions prior to setting off,” said Inspector Jones.

“Weather warnings are issued for safety and bushwalkers must amend their plans accordingly, including cancelling or postponing if necessary.

“Bushwalking while a weather warning is in place puts bushwalkers in danger and puts rescuers at unnecessary risk,” he said.

Weather warnings are available at: www.bom.gov.au/tas/warnings/