Avalanche — Mono, California

2006-02-01 · Mono, California

Wider weather episode

Three skiers were caught in a slab avalanche while crossing an open area on their way to Mt. Walt west of Twin Lakes. According to a newspaper report, all three were experienced skiers and all of them carried avalanche beacons. One skier survived the avalanche by hanging onto a tree at the edge of the snow slide. The other two skiers were caught in the avalanche and carried downhill. One of the skiers was only partially buried and suffered a large cut to his jaw. The other skier was carried through trees for about 600 feet. She suffered a broken back, among other serious injuries. She was airlifted to the University Hospital near Fresno, but died of her injuries.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 5489950. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.