More details are emerging about the plane crash that claimed the life of former Alaska Senator Ted Stevens along with four other victims near Dillingham, Alaska.

According to reports, clouds, heavy fog, and rain covered the crash area making it very difficult for rescuers to arrive on the scene until Tuesday.

However, two volunteer emergency medical technicians, a doctor and a nurse, were reportedly dropped into the area by aircraft and then hiked over 1,000 feet to the scene, according to reports.

Upon arrival the plane was reported to be mostly intact, but resting on a 30-40 degree incline. The two volunteers reportedly gave emergency care to the survivors and stayed with them overnight.

Beyond the volunteer effort, the fishing waders worn by the survivors are being credited with partly assisting them.  According to National Guardsman Senior Master Sgt. Jonathan Davis they helped to better shield the survivors from the elements throughout the night.  "They act as a survival-type blanket," Davis said. "[They] keep the heat in and the rain out."

Bodies of the victims, including Stevens remained on the crash scene Tuesday according to investigators. Temperatures reportedly reached as low as 48 degrees overnight at Dillingham.

Clifford Law Offices has experience handling small Alaska plane crashes and turboprop fishing plane accidents.  To read more about the portion of our aviation practice focused on small plane crashes please go here.