On February 18, 2025, two backcountry skiers were killed in an avalanche in the Cascade Mountains of Oregon. The avalanche occurred near a snowmobile trail in Happy Valley, west of Bend, prompting emergency workers to respond and recover the bodies the following day.
- Two skiers killed in Oregon avalanche
- Bodies recovered near Happy Valley
- Victims were longtime central Oregon residents
- Avalanche classified as D2 severity level
- Incident likely triggered by the skiers
The victims have not yet been identified by authorities; however, they are reported to be longtime residents of central Oregon. The avalanche was classified as D2 on a five-level scale, indicating it could potentially injure or kill a person.
The Central Oregon Avalanche Center reported that the avalanche took place at an elevation of 6,700 feet on a south-facing slope. This type of avalanche is significant enough to cause serious injury or death. It is believed that the skiers may have triggered the avalanche themselves while skiing in the area.
Key details regarding this incident include:
- Date: February 18, 2025
- Location: Happy Valley, near Bend, Oregon
- Victims: Two unidentified long-time residents of central Oregon
- Avalanche classification: D2 (potentially dangerous)
The Central Oregon Avalanche Center has emphasized safety measures for backcountry skiing and urged all outdoor enthusiasts to remain vigilant during winter conditions. Avalanches can occur unexpectedly and pose severe risks even for experienced skiers.
This tragic incident highlights the dangers associated with backcountry skiing during winter months. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this event while emphasizing safety precautions for future outings.
