Tragic news out of southwestern Colorado where two backcountry skiers died after being caught in an avalanche. Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC) reports the skiers had been reported overdue from a trip near Vallecito Reservoir (about 24 miles northeast of Durango).

A rescue helicopter was dispatched and found tracks leading into avalanche debris just before midnight. The two skiers were later found buried in about 4 feet of snow. Colorado Avalanche Information Center staff visited the accident site yesterday and will publish a final report in the next week. These two deaths bring the number of people killed in avalanches this season to six.

We send our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the victims.