Skier suffocating under deep snow rescued at Snoqualmie
Mar 16, 2026, 12:10 PM
(Photo courtesy of KIRO 7)
(Photo courtesy of KIRO 7)
A skier was rescued after being buried in deep fresh snow this week at the Summit at Snoqualmie.
The resort was dumped on with fresh powder on Thursday as a snowstorm closed US 2 at Stevens Pass and I-90 in Snoqualmie.
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Skier escapes suffocation at Snoqualmie
Ian Deans was recording a promotional video for the resort after the fresh snowfall when he spotted a pair of skis sticking out of the hill as a skier suffocated underneath.
“It was so deep,” Deans told KIRO 7. “Walking around, you were up to your waist, if not more.”
Deans immediately dug the man out, first trying to pull him free and then clearing snow from his airways. The trapped skier was heard gasping for breath once his face was exposed.
Deans wants people to be aware of the risks posed by fresh snow and the crowds hitting the slopes. Experts advise skiing with a partner and creating an air pocket around the face if you get buried.
Deans said the rescue shows that even with fresh powder attracting crowds to the mountains, skiers should remain aware of the dangers hidden in deep snow.
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