An inbounds avalanche yesterday at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort buried 5 skiers in the southern end of the Expert Chutes. It was opening day for the Thunder Lift which closed shortly after the avalanche occurred.
Jackson Hole had seen over a foot of new snow in the 24 hours prior to yesterdays slide.
Official Statement from Jackson Hole Mountain Resort:
(December 1, 2018) – Teton Village, WY – An avalanche occurred within the ski area boundary earlier today at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort (JHMR). This slide, which occurred in the southern end of the Expert Chutes, was reported at approximately 9:55 am and before 10 am Jackson Hole Ski Patrol and staff were on the scene. Multiple skiers were caught in the slide, and five individuals were buried to varying degrees. Once on scene, Patrol immediately responded to the individuals caught in the slide, then Ski Patrol made a hasty search of the area with two dogs, a Recco device and beacons. A larger scale search and probing of the area to ensure no other guests were caught in the debris followed. At approximately 11:20 am JH Ski Patrol concluded the search of the area, while it remained closed to guests. The parties involved in the incident did not experience any significant injuries.
JHMR will be conducting avalanche reduction efforts this afternoon and Thunder Lift will remained closed for the day. We thank everyone who helped support this incident today; safety of our employees and guests is always our number one priority.