Two ski patrollers were caught in an avalanche at Mammoth Mountain, a major ski resort in California, just a few months after a similar incident. The incident occurred on Lincoln Mountain, known for its steep slopes, during 'avalanche mitigation work' before the resort opened on Friday morning. The two patrollers were rescued and taken to Mammoth Hospital, with one sustaining serious injuries and being transported for further care, and the other being evaluated for possible broken bones. This event highlights the inherent risks associated with avalanche control and the challenges faced by ski patrollers in ensuring the safety of skiers.
This incident comes on the heels of a tragic accident in February, when another pair of ski patrollers were caught in a sudden slide on the same mountain, resulting in the death of one of the patrollers, Claire Murphy. The recent 'Christmas miracle' storm, which brought several feet of snow to the resort, has been a boon for the California ski industry, which was struggling with below-normal precipitation. However, the challenge now lies in safely managing the heavy snowfall, especially during the busy ski season between Christmas and New Year's Day, when thousands of skiers flock to the slopes.
The ski area has been closed for the day to ensure the safety of all, and the incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by ski patrollers and the importance of their role in maintaining the safety of skiers. As the industry navigates the challenges of managing heavy snowfall, the focus remains on ensuring the well-being of both patrollers and skiers alike.
