JACKSON, Wyo. — Teton County Search and Rescue (TCSAR) volunteers responded to another avalanche accident this afternoon, Feb. 23.
A snowmobiler was partially buried after an avalanche occurred on the southeast aspect at an elevation of about 9,000 feet on Mt Leidy. The victim is alive but injured.
Bridger Teton Avalanche Center reported numerous other fresh large avalanches in the area. Other avalanches were reported in the Teton during this afternoon’s brief window of sun. An avalanche was observed in Grand Teton National Park and appeared to be eight feet deep.
TCSAR shared a post on their Instagram describing their recent caseloads, “After performing nine missions in nine days, Teton County Search and Rescue is advising backcountry users to take extra precautions. Since Jan. 1, the team of volunteers has been called 29 times, resulting in 22 active missions, more than the entire 2019/2020 winter.”
The post went on to describe the recent busy period, “We appreciate how much recreating in the backcountry means to locals and visitors alike,” said TCSAR Chief Advisor Cody Lockhart. “This is why our team trains all year long, and the volunteers have never been more prepared. But the seriousness of these frequent accidents does take a toll. Given the recent influx of incidents, we want to remind everyone to build in extra margins of safety while recreating in the backcountry,” Lockhart said.
Buckrail offers sincerest condolences to friends and family of the deceased in the recent avalanche accidents.
