Mar 4 • 18:25 UTC 🇺🇸 USA Fox News

Washington skier buried in avalanche is rescued after wife uses phone app to track him

A skier in Washington State was rescued from an avalanche thanks to his wife's quick thinking and use of a tracking app after he became unresponsive.

In a dramatic rescue in Washington State, Michael Harris, an avid skier, found himself buried under an avalanche while skiing at Stevens Pass. He was caught in the slide when his skis got wedged between two massive snow slabs, rendering him immobile. Despite the dire circumstances, he managed to stay upright by sliding into a snow hole, though the experience left him feeling encased in cement. During the harrowing ordeal, he attempted to reach for his phone but was unable to move his hands due to the weight of the snow.

As time passed without hearing from her husband, Penny Harris began to feel that something was amiss. Trusting her instincts, she used a phone app to track his location, which ultimately led rescuers to his whereabouts. When they arrived, they used avalanche rescue techniques to dig him out of the snow, where he had been trapped for several hours. This quick thinking and modern technology played a crucial role in ensuring his survival, highlighting the importance of being prepared for emergencies while enjoying outdoor activities.

The rescue not only underscores the dangers of skiing in avalanche-prone areas but also the increasing reliance on smartphones and apps for safety in outdoor recreation. Michael Harris's experience serves as a reminder to both skiers and outdoor enthusiasts about the unpredictable nature of snow sports and the vital importance of communication and preparedness, particularly in remote locations.

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