Avalanche News - June 16, 2024
Sign up to receive this in your email
(No more than once daily, often less depending on the amount of new news.)
Why The Steepest Aerial Tram Closed For Good
Bridal Veil Falls is one of the top attractions in Utah. The 607-foot-tall double cataract waterfall is conveniently located just outside of Provo. Because of this, David Grow decided to build a tram next to it. Constructed in 1961, The Sky Ride brought passengers to the Eagle’s Nest Lodge and Restaurant. The two six-passenger trams were built in Switzerland. It allegedly held the title of the world’s steepest tram, with the steepest pitch reaching 62 degrees. (Today, that title belongs to the Loen Skylift in Norway.) So what happened to it? Unsurprisingly, an avalanche led to its demise. In 1996, a major avalanche destroyed the tram and base terminal. This was the second time this had happened to the cable car, with a smaller one occurring back in 1986.
More ... (Unofficial Networks)
Additional Detailed Report (ISSW Paper)
Ken Wylie's harrowing avalanche experience
In this gripping episode of the "Outlet" podcast they sat down with Ken Wylie, who recounts the day he was caught in a devastating avalanche 20 years ago. Ken goes through the critical moments before the disaster, from the overlooked morning meeting to the ominous "wumpf" sound that signalled impending doom. His vivid storytelling brings to life the harrowing experience of being swept away by the avalanche, his struggle to stay afloat on the snow, and the moments of awareness before he passed out. This life-altering event has since driven Ken to dedicate his career to teaching avalanche safety and risk management.
More ... (The Central App - NZ)
Skiers survive terrifying avalanche (video)
Two skiers had a brush with death on the slopes of Mont Blanc du Tacul in the French Alps on May 28 after an avalanche nearly swept them down the entire sheer face of the mountain. Shocked bystanders witnessed the moment the adventurers were caught in the path of the cascading mass of snow, which was heading straight for an icy cliff below.
More ... (Yahoo News)
