Winter snow sports bring an adrenaline rush, offering endless excitement, but they also come with hidden dangers. Catastrophic avalanches, though seemingly distant, are actually close and often occur unexpectedly. According to statistics, at least 150 people worldwide lose their lives each year due to avalanches during outdoor activities.
If you venture off the beaten path, exploring remote wilderness for a skiing adventure, whether it’s backcountry skiing or ski mountaineering, there is always a risk of encountering an avalanche.
The Most Unpredictable “White Terror”
Among the various dangers faced in mountaineering, avalanches are perhaps the most sudden and unpredictable. They often occur without warning and are nearly impossible to escape. Within seconds, a roaring avalanche descends, burying everything in its path—forests, roads, and even entire towns are engulfed by the snow.
Described as the “white terror” in mountaineering literature, avalanches are known for their diverse forms, resembling slow-moving lava, flowing white torrents, or even turbulent air currents at speeds of up to 350 kilometers per hour.
Avalanches, the “number one killer” in the mountains and the “white terror” of winter sports, highlight their formidable power through the names given by the external world.
When confronted with a sweeping avalanche with immense destructive force that can extend over hundreds of meters, it’s not a situation where one must resign themselves to being buried and await the grim reapers of hypoxia and hypothermia. Knowledge of everyday avalanche safety, the proper use of avalanche safety equipment, and understanding how to survive in an avalanche can significantly increase the chances of survival.
How to Survive an Avalanche Encounter
Once caught in an avalanche, the speed of the cascading snow can be extremely fast, and the resulting air currents can instantly throw a person off course. It is crucial to employ various techniques to maximize the chances of survival.
- Run Quickly to the Side to Avoid the Avalanche
Avalanche speeds can reach up to 200 kilometers per hour, and running downhill may result in being buried by the snow. Therefore, whether the avalanche occurs on an uphill or downhill slope, it is essential to run to the side in the direction of the avalanche. Try to escape the moving snow. Avoid running towards the mountain!
- If Unable to Avoid the Avalanche, Try to Grab a Rock or Tree
In the case of a small avalanche, grabbing onto something can effectively help you endure until the avalanche subsides. When swept away by the snow wave, holding onto an object can slow down the impact, reducing the risk of being buried. It’s best to try to grab onto large rocks or sturdy trees, or use an ice axe or ski pole planted in the snow to support yourself.
- Make Efforts to Stay Near the Surface If Swept Away
If unable to stop, as the density of the human body is much greater than that of snow, there is a high risk of being deeply buried when swept away. Use a swimming motion to vigorously move your arms and legs, striving to stay near the surface. Make an effort to swim to the top.
- If Completely Buried, Create an Air Pocket
If, unfortunately, you are completely buried, remember to place your elbow or hand in front of your face to provide a space to breathe. Leave an arm or hand above the snow surface to increase the chances of rescuers finding you.
- Leave Rescue Clues
As the avalanche’s speed gradually diminishes, forcefully push your body upwards, extending one hand above the snow surface. This significantly increases the chances of search and rescue personnel locating you. Additionally, rescuers typically use the location of items to determine the trapped person’s position. Leaving a lightweight piece of equipment (such as gloves) on the snow surface can enhance your visibility.
Remember, avalanche safety knowledge and the use of proper equipment are crucial for anyone engaging in winter sports in avalanche-prone areas. Always prioritize safety and be prepared for the unpredictable challenges that nature may present.