I have been getting the snow report lately because I am going there soon. A guy was killed in an avalanche last weekend, then I get this report. Sounds like there will be plenty of snow.:eekdance:
Jackson Hole Snow Report
December 30, 2008
From Jerry Blann, President JHMR
Given the nature of this unique snow story, I wanted to remain on the top of these snow report messages. We appreciate your understanding during these extremely challenging times and thank you for the many kind words of support we have received.
Routine avalanche hazard reduction work by Jackson Hole Mountain Resort (JHMR) Ski Patrol yesterday morning triggered an avalanche of significant size down the southeast aspect of the Headwall. The Headwall has not been open yet to the public this season and was not expected to open in the near future.
The first slide descended from the top of the Headwall, and after a later hand charge, a second slide was triggered. The slide ran down to the areas west and south of the Bridger Restaurant building, causing considerable non-structural damage.
This incident took place prior to the Bridger Gondola opening, but a number of JHMR operational employees were in the vicinity. A search for potential victims was conducted and thankfully, after quick response aided by the gondola, everyone was accounted for. Five ski patrollers were caught in the slide but were extracted quickly with minor injuries.
Following the incident a decision was made to close the resort temporarily while further avalanche hazard reduction work took place. The decisions surrounding when the upper mountain will re-open will be made on a daily basis based on the existing conditions.
Due to the significant snowfall received in the Teton region (62 inches in past seven days), we have received a request from our partners at Bridger TetonNational Forest to close the OB gates into the surrounding backcountry. JHMR will honor this request and close all our gates into the backcountry until further notice.
Finally, our Patrollers specifically and all JHMR departments have done a phenomenal job showing the utmost professionalism and teamwork.
I would also like to acknowledge and thank the Teton County Sheriff’s Department, Teton County Search and Rescue and USFS for their support.
Jerry
