Rescue crews in Salt Lake City, Utah, are currently searching for two skiers who went missing after an avalanche occurred on Thursday on Lone Peak in the Wasatch Range. The avalanche prompted a rescue operation after reports came in just after 10 a.m. Three skiers were initially reported missing, but one of them was able to dig himself out of the snow and was airlifted off the mountain to a nearby hospital. The remaining two skiers have yet to be located, and crews were unable to search for them immediately due to dangerous conditions on the mountain.
Sheriff Rosie Rivera stated that it was unclear whether the two missing skiers were buried in the snow slide, and due to safety concerns, rescue crews had to conduct mitigation work before continuing the search. Efforts to locate the missing skiers were put on hold, with hopes of resuming once conditions improved. The skier who was found and rescued was being interviewed at the hospital to gather more information about the events that occurred during the avalanche.
The area had experienced significant snowfall, with over 30 inches of snow and three inches of water accumulation over the past three days, increasing the risk of avalanches in the backcountry. The Utah Avalanche Center, represented by Craig Gordon, emphasized the dangers posed by the current conditions and advised caution for those venturing into the mountains. The teams on standby were prepared to resume the search for the missing skiers as soon as conditions permitted, with hopes of a successful rescue mission.
The urgency and complexity of the situation were highlighted by the need to ensure the safety of both the rescue crews and the missing individuals. The sheriff’s office, along with other agencies involved in the search and rescue operation, were coordinating efforts to locate the missing skiers and provide them with necessary assistance. With the unpredictable nature of avalanches and the challenging terrain of the Wasatch Range, the rescue mission required careful planning and coordination to ensure the safety and success of the operation.
Avalanches are a serious and potentially deadly hazard in mountainous regions, and skiers are encouraged to be aware of their surroundings, weather conditions, and avalanche risks before embarking on backcountry adventures. The tragic incidents involving the missing skiers served as a reminder of the dangers posed by avalanches and the importance of preparedness and caution when exploring the wilderness. The search and rescue efforts continued, with hopes of finding and safely recovering the missing individuals amidst the challenging conditions on Lone Peak.
The community in Salt Lake City and beyond came together to support the rescue teams and the families of the missing skiers, offering thoughts and prayers for a successful outcome. The cooperation and solidarity demonstrated in times of crisis underscored the resilience and compassion of the local residents and emergency responders. As the search for the missing skiers continued, the focus remained on ensuring their safety and reuniting them with their loved ones, while also raising awareness about avalanche risks and the importance of preparedness in outdoor activities.
