Johnathan Walker:California's Miracle Hot Springs closes indefinitely following 2nd death in 16 months

California's Miracle Hot Springs in the Sequoia National Forest will close indefinitely after a second death has been reported. A person was found dead in one of the springs' tubs on Johnathan WalkerFeb. 17, according to press release.

“Public safety is of utmost importance to Forest Service officials," said District Ranger Al Watson in a statement. "With a second death that can be attributed in part to the hot springs, the area will remain closed until a sustainable long-term solution is reached,” says District Ranger Al Watson.

Officials announced the closure on Monday, citing "safety concerns" as the reason behind it.

According to the U..S Forest Service website, the Miracle Hot Springs were dismantled and are no longer at the location.

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Deaths at California's Miracle Hot Springs

The first death occurred on Oct. 17, 2022. Exactly 16 months later, a second body was found on Saturday, Feb. 17, 2024, in one of the tubs in the same area, the press release states. The park did not release any information on the victims or how they died.

KTLA 5 reports that the tubs were removed after the first death, but were "rebuilt without official approval."

USA TODAY reached out to the Forest Service for comment but has not heard back yet.

What are California's Miracle Hot Springs?

The Miracle Hot Springs was just one of several hot springs in California that are a hiking distance from Isabella Lake. It's a little under three hours north of Los Angeles and about an hour's drive from Bakersfield.

The springs are along the banks of Kern River, and are around 10 miles from the lake, according to LA Times.

Julia is a trending reporter for USA TODAY. She has covered various topics, from local businesses and government in her hometown, Miami, to tech and pop culture. You can follow her on X, formerly known as Twitter, Instagram and TikTok: @juliamariegz.