Ski resorts in Europe tend to work quite a bit differently than ski resorts in North America, with off-piste terrain in-between trails often being “ski at your own risk”. As such, avalanches in areas easily accessible by chairlift aren’t uncommon.
This avalanche filmed at Val d’Isere in the French Alps apparently occurred on the Arrête de Fresse near the Borsat chairlift. The slide was triggered remotely by a skier thanks to a persistent weak layer.
“The avalanche was caused by a persistent weak layer (deep hoar). These surface hoar layers can persist for weeks or months, making them tricky to forecast, often releasing under low loads or even remotely.” – Elena Yakimova
Fortunately the skier caught in the slide was wearing an avalanche airbag and managed to escape it in one piece. Remember to always check the avalanche forecast if you’re heading off-piste, not matter in the United States, Canada, Europe, or anywhere else. If you don’t know, don’t go.
