Skier triggered avalanche caught on video 2 days ago on Mount Washington in New Hampshire. Here is Mount Washington Avalanche Center’s statement about the incident:
“Some of the best learning opportunities are unplanned. About 50 people on the deck at Hermit Lake watched 2 skiers climb Hillman’s and move to The Duchess. Many people were on the fence about their plans for the day and considering “just going for a look.” Many did not have avalanche rescue gear. As the skiers moved into the first few turns in The Duchess, they triggered a slab that proceeded to nearly clean out the entire slope as it ran down the length of the gully and through the Lower Snowfields. Thankfully, the skiers did not get caught. Watching an avalanche in action helped many of the people on the deck decide that maybe today wasn’t the day. We can talk all day and try to teach as much as we can, but there is nothing more effective than watching the powder cloud rip down the mountain.”
Let this be a clear message to any skiers thinking of heading out that way. Avalanche conditions in the area are no joke and you should proceed with extreme caution and with all the proper avalanche gear if you’re thinking of skiing a zone that could experience a slide. Stay safe out their East Coasters and spread this around with anyone going to Tucks.