Highlights
- A devastating avalanche at Palisades Tahoe ski resort claimed the life of 66-year-old Kenneth Kidd and injured another skier.
- Quick actions by civilians and resort staff led to the rescue of two others caught in the avalanche.
- The resort temporarily closed both the Palisades and Alpine Meadows sides for safety assessments and investigations.
The Avalanche’s Sudden Strike
On that fateful morning, as skiers enjoyed the fresh snow, an avalanche thundered down the slopes. Among them was 16-year-old Storm Jacobs, who witnessed the terrifying event from a chairlift. The avalanche occurred just 30 minutes after the KT-22 lift, known for its challenging terrain, had opened for the first time this season.
Immediate Response and Aftermath
The resort’s patrol and mountain operations teams sprang into action, launching a search for those caught in the avalanche. This quick response was crucial in the rescue efforts. Unfortunately, the avalanche claimed the life of Kenneth Kidd, while another skier sustained injuries. Two additional people, also caught in the slide, were rescued by civilians present at the scene.
Dee Byrne, the president and chief operating officer of the resort, expressed deep sorrow over the incident, highlighting the dynamic and ongoing nature of the investigation. The Placer County Sheriff’s Office and Olympic Valley Fire Department played key roles in the search and rescue operations.
Safety Assessments and Precautions
The resort had been vigilant about avalanche risks, with ski patrols regularly assessing the conditions. Despite these precautions, the avalanche’s force was overwhelming. Michael Gross, vice president of mountain operations, emphasized the regular safety assessments conducted by the ski patrol, including monitoring weather conditions, snowpack, and wind.
Weather Conditions and Warnings
The incident coincided with one of the season’s strongest storms, expected to bring significant snowfall to the Lake Tahoe area. The Sierra Avalanche Center had issued warnings of considerable avalanche danger due to the storm, emphasizing the risks associated with the weak snow layers in the region.
Resort’s Reopening and Ongoing Investigation
The resort reopened the following day, though the KT-22 area remained closed pending further investigation. This closure was part of the resort’s commitment to safety and thorough assessment following such a significant incident.
The avalanche at Palisades Tahoe ski resort serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability and power of nature. It underscores the importance of continuous vigilance and preparedness in the face of natural hazards, especially in mountainous terrains prone to such events.