(RightIsRight.co) – Marking the fifth such incident this winter, a tragic avalanche near Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming killed a skier and left another injured.
The tragedy adds to the increasing count of avalanche-related deaths, highlighting the importance of ensuring proper avalanche safety measures.
In the Breccia Cliffs area, a group of four skiers triggered the avalanche while climbing a mountain at 10,400 feet.
They broke a five-foot thick slab of snow, which buried one skier completely while partially covering another.
Rescue teams took about four hours to reach the scene due to severe weather, a reminder of how nature can hinder even the best-prepared responses.
Challenging conditions and the fact that a rescue helicopter had to remain grounded showcase how long emergencies can take without air support.
The skilled skier who tragically lost his life was Kenneth Goff, a wilderness veteran and an instructor at the National Outdoor Leadership School.
Friends and colleagues remember him as a remarkable individual whose company will be deeply missed.
“Kenny was calm and caring, chronically positive, a climbing partner to many, and a friend to all,” stated NOLS Rocky Mountain Campus Director Sarah Martin.
The Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center is investigating the case. Teton County Search and Rescue expressed its deepest condolences to Goff’s family and friends.
This incident follows a series of 39 reported avalanches in the region over just two weeks, many of which were human-triggered.
This fact should prompt all ski enthusiasts to prioritize precaution and carry the necessary equipment, as the National Weather Service advises avoiding dangerously steep slopes.
Heartbreaking news from Togwotee Pass: a skier has died in an avalanche. A stark reminder to stay vigilant in the backcountry. Check forecasts, carry proper gear, and travel with partners.https://t.co/Lqk66LzQ2h
— Teton Gravity Research (@TetonGravity) January 6, 2025
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