Snoqualmie Pass, Washington — Deep snow immersion is a hazard that needs to be taken seriously by skiers and riders. The video below shows why.
Earlier this week, Ian Deans was skiing during a deep powder day at The Summit at Snoqualmie. After seeing a downed skier, he quickly realized that the man’s head was trapped under the snow. Frantic digging ensued, and he was able to save the indiviudal.
The video was so jarring that the Washington ski resort ended up collaborating with Ian on the post, meaning it was on their feed as well. I praise them for that, as the best way to learn about this is not by seeing a sign, but by witnessing a situation like that unfold.
The situation is reminiscent of another snow suffocation rescue from earlier this season. At Palisades Tahoe, two friends found someone trapped under the snow and dug him out. I’d say the main difference is that many more people were around the individual at The Summit at Snoqualmie.
Ultimately, Ian shared this video to share the risks of snow suffocation:
“Just to be transparent, I’m not posting this to get attention or accolades.
He is safe which is the most important thing.
Additionally, this type of suffocation is very real yet rarely talked about or fully understood.
We see the warnings of immersion but people don’t realize how easy it can happen. Akin to drowning.
Send this to educate your friends so we can avoid this.”
Image/Video Credits: Ian Deans
