Solo backcountry skier carried by avalanche escapes with no injuries, according to Grand County Search and Rescue

Grand County Search and Rescue/Courtesy photo
A backcountry skier triggered an avalanche on Russell Peak west of Berthoud Pass at about 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 2, according to reports from Grand County Search and Rescue and the Colorado Avalanche Information Center. The skier was caught in the avalanche and partially buried, but was able to self-extricate at the bottom of the slide.
The skier was carried about 100 yards down the slope, according to a news release. With assistance from search and rescue, the skier returned to their vehicle in the parking lot. The individual declined medical evaluation and reported no injuries.
The skier was skiing alone and was not carrying rescue equipment, according to search and rescue officials.
In a post on Facebook, search and rescue encouraged all backcountry recreationists to prioritize safety and preparedness. Essential gear — including a rescue beacon, shovel and probe — is crucial for self-rescue in an avalanche, officials stated.
A similar incident, in which a solo backcountry skier was partially buried and had to self-extricate, happened Dec. 3 near Berthoud Pass.
Agencies are continuing to warn about elevated avalanche danger. Avalanche danger was high (Level 4 of 5) Thursday in the area of the slide, including Berthoud Pass, due to recent snowstorms covering a weak snowpack. The danger has since decreased to considerable but is expected to increase again on the heels of an incoming snowstorm.
“Avalanche conditions are dangerous,” the avalanche center warned Friday. “You can easily trigger avalanches large enough to bury or kill a person. Some will grow very large and be nearly impossible to survive.”


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