Backcountry Skier Dies In Avalanche In Schwyz Alps | 9th Avalanche Fatality In Switzerland in 2015/2016
Muotathal, Switzerland – At around noon on February 27, 2016 a 39-year-old backcountry ski tourer was caught and killed in an avalanche near the Blüemberg in the Schwyz Alps in Muotathal in territory Farlen in Canton Schwyz in Switzerland.
The ski tourer was in a group of two when he was swept away by the avalanche. From the few details available it sounds like he was carried 25 to 30 feet over a ledge. His body was recovered by REGA Swiss Rescue helicopter.
According to SLF.ch, the avalanche started near Blüemberg at 1600 meters on a north aspect. The avalanche danger at the time was 3 of 5. You can see a topographic map of where the accident took place here.
This is the 9th avalanche fatality in Switzerland during the 2015/2016 season.
The Blüemberg Ski Tour is a popular backcountry ski route in Central Switzerland near Klaussen Pass that runs to a height of 2405 meters. Get more information about the Blüemberg ski tour at Gipfelbuch.ch.
________________________________________
