Home / Disasters and Accidents / Avalanche Claims Two Snowmobilers in Washington
Avalanche Claims Two Snowmobilers in Washington
11 Jan
Summary
- Two men died in an avalanche while snowmobiling near Longs Pass.
- Survivors used a satellite device to signal for help.
- Heavy snow has impacted Washington, with more forecast.
Tragedy struck central Washington on Friday when an avalanche claimed the lives of two men snowmobiling near Longs Pass in northern Kittitas County. Paul Markoff, 38, of North Bend, and Erik Henne, 43, of Snoqualmie Pass, were among a group of four.
The two survivors of the avalanche were able to activate a satellite device to call for assistance. Kittitas County Sheriff's Office and Search and Rescue volunteers responded, reaching the remote location and transporting the survivors to safety that evening. Due to dangerous conditions, a recovery operation for the deceased was postponed until Saturday.
On Saturday, search teams returned to the area and airlifted the two victims. Their belongings, including two snowmobiles, were also recovered. Washington has been experiencing heavy snowfall throughout the week, particularly in mountainous areas, with more snow and rain anticipated.
