Avalanche — Wasatch Mountains South of I-80, Utah

2012-02-23 · Wasatch Mountains South of I-80, Utah

Event narrative

Two snowboarders were in Dutch Draw, a backcountry area south of the Canyons Resort. After a brief stop, the victim went ahead of the other snowboarder, where he triggered an avalanche, was caught, and was buried. While he was eventually dug out of the snow by his companion, and other snowboarders in the area, he was buried for approximately 40 minutes. Attempts at resuscitation were unsuccessful, and he died at the scene.

Wider weather episode

A storm system moving through Utah brought strong winds to the northern half of the state, especially along the higher terrain. These winds added to already dangerous avalanche conditions, and there was one avalanche fatality during this period of time.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 365938. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.