Avalanches in Western US Claim More Lives in Recent Weeks
Recent Fatalities
One person was killed in an avalanche in central Colorado on Saturday, marking the latest fatality stemming from avalanches in the western US this season. The incident occurred in a steep area known as “The Fingers” above Berthoud Pass, which was triggered by a skier. A few people were caught in a separate slide, but were uninjured.
This is the third reported avalanche fatality in Colorado this winter, and the second in less than a week. A Crested Butte snowboarder was killed on February 20 in a slide west of Silverton. The Colorado Avalanche Information Center has reported multiple fatalities this season.
Other Recent Incidents
On February 17, three people died in avalanches – one near Lake Tahoe and two backcountry skiers in Oregon’s Cascade Mountains. On February 8, a well-known outdoor guide was caught in an avalanche in Utah and was killed.
In California, a member of the ski patrol at Mammoth Mountain died on February 14 after being caught in an avalanche during avalanche mitigation work. The incident occurred after a major storm dumped six feet of snow in the Sierra Nevada over 36 hours. Another ski patroller caught in the slide was extracted and responsive, while the deceased, Claire Murphy, was taken to a hospital with injuries.
Avalanche Risks and Precautions
The National Avalanche Center reports that 25-30 people die in avalanches in the US each year. The current map shows moderate and considerable risks in parts of Colorado, Utah, and Idaho, while avalanche warnings are in place for areas in Washington and neighboring Montana.
The Grand County Sheriff’s Office in Colorado has issued a message urging backcountry recreational enthusiasts to always carry essential equipment and check daily avalanche forecasts.
Conclusion
The recent spate of avalanche fatalities serves as a stark reminder of the importance of taking necessary precautions and being aware of the risks involved with outdoor activities. As the winter season continues, it is crucial for individuals to prioritize their safety and take necessary measures to minimize the risk of avalanches.
FAQs
* What are the most common causes of avalanches?
+ Skier-triggered avalanches, weather conditions, and human error are the most common causes of avalanches.
* What are the warning signs of an impending avalanche?
+ Loose snow, snowfall, and human activity can be warning signs of an impending avalanche.
* What should I do if I get caught in an avalanche?
+ If caught in an avalanche, try to stay calm, cover your face and ears, and swim to the surface. Avoid fighting the slide and try to get to an open area.
* How can I reduce the risk of avalanches?
+ Always check forecasts, use proper equipment, and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid skiing or snowboarding in areas with high avalanche risk and consider hiring a guide or taking a course on avalanche safety.
