VT PISTEURS IN LUCKY ESCAPE

17 January 2004


Two Pisteurs narrowly missed serious injury or worse following an unexpectedly large avalanche slip on Wednesday morning.

Snow at last
Following the much needed 2.5 meters of snow that have fallen on Val Thorens this past week many of the lifts have been closed during blasting as a saftey measure to ensure all pistes are free from the risk of avalanches. In this instance above the funitel peclet a larger than expected volume of snow slipped off the glacier burying a mountain restaurant, a pisteur hut and took the roof off the top station of the funitel.

Fortunately for the trapped another pisteur was on hand to dig them out and no-one was seriously hurt. It is not known how long the Funitel Peclet will be closed for. Initial reports suggest that it will be out of action for 4 weeks, although many suggest this may be a conservative estimate.

Listen to the warnings
This is an example to many of how dangerous the mountain can be even for very experienced and well trained proffessionals. Although the deep powder and sexy off piste itineries look very inviting please remember how dangerous they can be and ensure you have all the appropriate safety gear including beeper, probe, shovels, and helmets. Also always consult the piste security to see if they feel the runs are safe.

Enjoy the powder but please BE CAREFUL.

Picture from Robin Wilkins - Natives Resort Reporter in Val Thorens
W ith Redeye - Natives reporter official beanie sponsor

Tom

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