Search continues for Ohio woman in the Smoky Mountains

GATLINBURG, Tennessee (WDEF) – Park rangers continue the search for 53-year-old Susan Clements in the Smoky Mountains.

The Ohio woman was last seen Tuesday near Clingmans Dome.

She was hiking with her daughter on the Forney Ridge Trail near Andrews Bald.

They became separated around 5 PM.

The search began that evening, with no results.

Rangers say it is very unusual not to find a lost hiker in the first 24 hours.

On Friday, 40 trained searchers were combing the Appalachian Trail, talking to hikers in the area.

Verizon Wireless has deployed a mobile cell site using satellite connectivity to keep the searchers in contact.

While the search continues, Clingmans Dome Road is closed.