Fatal Avalanche in Idaho Claims the Life of Experienced Backcountry Skier

An unfortunate incident occurred in Idaho on Friday when an experienced backcountry skier lost their life in an avalanche, according to officials. The identity of the skier has not been disclosed at this time.

The Location and Events

The skier was navigating through Donaldson Peak in Idaho's Lost River Range alongside another experienced backcountry skier, as reported by the Sawtooth Avalanche Center. The tragic turn of events unfolded when one of the skiers inadvertently triggered a slope collapse while descending to the intended skiing area. This initial small avalanche then led to a larger secondary avalanche. The second skier, using a satellite communication device, promptly called for assistance before descending the avalanche path.

Equipped with a rescue transceiver and probe pole, the skier located their companion, who was buried under approximately five feet of snow. Devastatingly, despite successfully digging the skier out and administering CPR, the rescue efforts were ultimately in vain. Search and rescue teams swiftly evacuated the skier, but the outcome was tragically fatal, as confirmed by officials.

Increase in Snow-Related Tragedies

This heartbreaking incident marks the third ski-related fatality within the same week. Earlier, two skiers met a similar fate after an avalanche in the vicinity of Salt Lake City. Miraculously, a third skier managed to survive the ordeal. Additionally, the month of March witnessed the loss of two snowmobilers in separate avalanches in Idaho and Washington.

National Statistics

According to the Colorado Avalanche Information Center, the current winter season has seen a total of 16 avalanche-related deaths across the United States. While this figure is significant, it remains lower than the annual average of approximately 30 avalanche-related fatalities in the country.