What's Happening?
Two ski patrollers at Mammoth Mountain were caught in an avalanche while performing avalanche mitigation work on Lincoln Mountain. The incident occurred at approximately 7:30 a.m. before the resort opened.
The patrollers were rescued and taken to Mammoth Hospital. One patroller sustained serious injuries and was transported for further care, while the other is being evaluated for possible broken bones. This event follows a significant snowstorm that brought over five feet of snow to the area since Christmas Eve. The resort, which has been struggling with low precipitation levels, will remain closed for the day. This is the second avalanche incident involving ski patrollers at Mammoth Mountain this year, with a previous fatal accident occurring in February.
Why It's Important?
The avalanche highlights the risks faced by ski patrollers who work to ensure the safety of ski resorts, especially during periods of heavy snowfall. The recent storm has been beneficial for the California ski industry, which has been struggling with low snow levels. However, the sudden influx of snow also poses challenges in terms of safety and management. The incident underscores the importance of avalanche mitigation efforts and the potential dangers involved. The timing of the storm is critical as it coincides with the busiest week of the ski season, drawing thousands of visitors to the slopes. Ensuring safety during this peak period is crucial for the resorts' operations and reputation.
What's Next?
Mammoth Mountain and other resorts in the Sierra will need to focus on managing the heavy snowfall to prevent further incidents. This includes continued avalanche mitigation work and possibly adjusting operations to ensure visitor safety. The resorts will also need to communicate effectively with guests about safety measures and any potential closures. As the ski season progresses, the industry will be closely monitoring weather patterns and snow levels to adapt their strategies accordingly.
