Crews recover bodies of all 9 skiers killed in California avalanche
Nine Skiers Die in California Avalanche. The Mountains Took Them Back.
What Happened
Nine backcountry skiers were killed in an avalanche in California. Search and rescue crews have recovered all nine bodies from the avalanche site.
Historical Context
Avalanche deaths in the U.S. average about 25-30 per year, with most occurring in Colorado, Alaska, and Utah. California sees 2-4 avalanche fatalities annually on average. The 2022-23 season had 29 deaths nationwide. Backcountry skiing has grown increasingly popular, with participation roughly doubling since 2000, while avalanche education has also expanded significantly.
What's In Your Control
Whether you venture into avalanche terrain without proper training and equipment. Checking avalanche forecasts before any backcountry activity. Taking an avalanche safety course if you ski or snowboard off-piste. Carrying and knowing how to use avalanche transceivers, probes, and shovels in backcountry terrain.
Does This Require Action?
If you engage in backcountry winter sports: review your avalanche safety knowledge and equipment. For everyone else: awareness of the risks our fellow humans accept in pursuit of mountain experiences.
Source: NPR
