Avalanche danger in Oregon’s Cascade Mountains turned fatal this week as two individuals lost their lives near a snowmobile trail in Happy Valley. The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the recovery of both victims following reports of a possible avalanche near Broken Top peak, located northwest of Bend and close to Mt. Bachelor Ski Resort.
Emergency responders were dispatched overnight after alerts about the avalanche, which struck a high-traffic recreational area. This is a devastating reminder of nature’s unpredictability, a spokesperson for the sheriff’s office stated. Central Cascades currently holds a considerableavalanche risk rating (Level 3/5), per the latest Avalanche Center forecast.
Our teams are urging extreme caution for winter recreation enthusiasts. Conditions remain unstable.— Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office
The incident highlights critical safety concerns for snowmobilers and backcountry travelers. Key factors contributing to avalanche risks include:
- Recent heavy snowfall and shifting wind patterns
- Steep terrain near Broken Top and Mt. Bachelor
- Increased foot traffic in high-risk zones
Local authorities recommend checking avalanche forecasts, carrying emergency gear, and avoiding isolated trails during peak risk periods. This tragedy marks Oregon’s first avalanche-related deaths of the 2024 winter season, reigniting debates about public awareness and trail monitoring protocols.