Tragic news out of Washington State where a snowboarder died in an avalanche on Mount St. Helens Saturday.
The Northwest Avalanche Center reports the man was climbing a peak and while standing near the summit he reportedly triggered a cornice and fell to his death. NWAC staff and the Skamania County Sheriff’s Office and Search and Rescue are investigating the incident.
Our thoughts are with the victim’s family and friends.
Preliminary Report: NWAC is saddened to report an avalanche fatality as a result of a cornice fall on Mount St. Helens. On Saturday, March 30, 2024, a snowboarder summited the peak. While standing near the top, he triggered a cornice and fell to his death. Our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and community.
Large cornices still overhang many steep alpine slopes. They often fail much farther back than expected. During these warm, sunny periods, they can become weaker and easier to trigger.
NWAC staff will work with the Skamania County Sheriff’s Office and Search and Rescue to compile a report.
