Search teams in Puerto Rico are racing against time to find Abdur Rahman, a 64-year-old Wisconsin resident who disappeared during a group hike in El Yunque National Forest on Sunday. The dense tropical rainforest – the only U.S.-managed tropical jungle – poses significant challenges for rescuers as they comb steep terrain and tangled vegetation.
El Yunque’s unpredictable weather and complex trail system have previously led to tragedies, including a fatal 2023 cliff fall involving another American tourist. Police spokesperson Carlos Mercado emphasized the urgency:
'Every hour matters in these conditions. We’re using drones and thermal imaging alongside ground teams.'
Key factors complicating the search:
- Sudden rainfall reducing visibility
- Limited cellular reception in remote areas
- Over 28,000 acres of mixed terrain
Rahman’s disappearance has reignited debates about jungle hiking safety protocols in popular tourist destinations. The U.S. Forest Service reports over 1.2 million annual visitors to El Yunque, with most incidents occurring when travelers leave marked paths.
Local guides advise hikers to always carry emergency gear, including whistles and waterproof GPS devices. As night temperatures drop to 68°F, Rahman’s family has started a social media campaign to amplify search efforts across Puerto Rico’s eastern municipalities.