Snowmachiner Killed in Avalanche in Turnagain Pass Area
A tragic incident occurred on Saturday afternoon in the Turnagain Pass area of Southcentral Alaska when a snowmachiner was caught in an avalanche and died. This marks the second fatal avalanche in the region this month. Alaska State Troopers received a report of the incident involving a juvenile male who triggered the avalanche while riding with a group of snowmachiners on the back side of Seattle Ridge. The boy was the only one caught in the avalanche and unfortunately did not survive.
His next of kin has been notified, and efforts are underway to safely recover his body from the unstable area. The Chugach National Forest Avalanche Information Center expressed its condolences to the family and friends of the victim. The forecast for the Turnagain Pass area had described considerable danger at mid- and upper elevations, warning of the potential for human-triggered avalanches due to a persistent weak layer of snow.
This tragic incident serves as a grim reminder of the dangers of backcountry travel in avalanche-prone areas. It is crucial for winter recreationalists to stay informed about avalanche conditions and make safe terrain choices to ensure their own safety. Our thoughts are with the victim’s family and all those affected by this heartbreaking incident.
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