Avalanche Forecaster Killed in Oregon Backcountry Skiing Accident
Tragedy struck in the Elkhorn Mountains of northeastern Oregon last week when avalanche forecaster Nick Burks lost his life in a devastating avalanche while backcountry skiing on Gunsight Mountain.
The 37-year-old forecaster was skiing with companion William Sloop when he triggered an avalanche at the top of a couloir, ultimately being carried down the mountain by the moving snow. Despite Sloop’s efforts to perform CPR, Burks could not be saved.
Both men were experienced in backcountry skiing and properly equipped, with Burks’s airbag deploying during the avalanche. Burks was an avalanche specialist for the Wallowa Avalanche Center in Joseph, Ore., where he provided crucial advisories and education for backcountry skiers and snowmobilers.
The tragic accident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of backcountry skiing, a sport vastly different from traditional resort skiing. Craig Gordon, an avalanche forecaster for the Utah Avalanche Center, emphasized the importance of proper knowledge, gear, and caution when venturing into the backcountry.
In the 2023-24 winter season alone, 11 individuals have lost their lives to avalanches in the United States, with a majority of fatalities occurring in backcountry areas. The importance of avalanche forecasting and safety measures cannot be overstated, as even experienced individuals like Burks can fall victim to the unpredictable forces of nature.
As the skiing community mourns the loss of a talented and dedicated forecaster, the need for awareness and preparedness in backcountry skiing remains paramount. Stay safe, stay informed, and always prioritize safety when exploring the untamed wilderness of the backcountry.
