PINKHAM NOTCH, N.H. — White Mountain National Forest officials say two climbers triggered an avalanche in Mount Washington’s Tuckerman Ravine, triggering a search and rescue operation in an area notorious for its deadly avalanches.
Authorities say two hikers, who both suffered minor injuries, were climbing in an area known as "The Chute" Sunday afternoon when they detected an unstable snow surface and decided to turn back.
Officials say the slope 75-100 feet above them fractured, launching a 100-foot-wide avalanche that swept both climbers and two nearby skiers to the base of the ravine.
Climber Michel Houde of Lorraine, Quebec and skier Kaj Huld of Brunswick, Maine, were treated by national forest service snow rangers for minor injuries. The other climber was taken by snowmobile to the base and a waiting ambulance.