Avalanche
A Colorado man in his 20s was skiing near I-70’s Eisenhower Tunnel near Denver, CO around noon yesterday when he triggered an avalanche, was caught in the avalanche, was thrown over two cliff bands, and partially buried. He was unable to free himself but was able to use his cell phone to call 911.
He was backcountry skiing by himself near the top of Coon Hill when he triggered the avalanche.
Rescuers report that he was buried up to his waist in an area with steep chutes.
The skier suffered serious injuries and was taken directly to the hospital by rescuers. He is expected to survive.
He did have avalanche gear.
Avalanche danger was rated at “Moderate” (2 out of 5) at the time and place of the avalanche.
That avy gear is less than useful when going out alone. False sense of security?