Three hikers found dead near popular Southern California trail

Three hikers were found dead near a popular mountain trail in Southern California after powerful winds hampered search-and-rescue crews, authorities said Tuesday

Three hikers were found dead near a popular mountain trail in Southern California after powerful winds hampered search-and-rescue crews, authorities said Tuesday.

A recovery effort on Mount Baldy, also known as Mount San Antonio, east of Los Angeles, continued, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department said in a news release.

The hikers have not been identified.

The dangerous conditions and the rescue efforts on Mount Baldy, which, at more than 10,000 feet, is the tallest peak in the San Gabriel Mountains, prompted authorities to close the area, the department said Tuesday.

"The temporary closure of Mt. Baldy trails is necessary to prevent additional emergencies and protect lives," Sheriff Shannon Dicus said in a statement.