Item: A BRIEF HISTORY OF AVALANCHE INCIDENTS IN NEW MEXICO
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Title: A BRIEF HISTORY OF AVALANCHE INCIDENTS IN NEW MEXICO
Proceedings: Proceedings, International Snow Science Workshop, Whistler, BC, Canada, 2026
Authors:
- Jasper H. Thompson [ Wyssen Avalanche Control, USA ]
Date: 2026-09-28
Abstract: When one thinks of New Mexico, avalanches may not come to mind. Nonetheless, avalanche incidents have occurred, and avalanche awareness has existed, in the state since at least the mid-20th century. The southern terminus of North America's Rocky Mountains is the high-altitude, middle-latitude, continental Sangre de Cristo Range of New Mexico. These mountains are prone to persistent weak layers and strong year-to-year precipitation variability. Avalanche terrain can be found in the backcountry and in some of the ski areas. When snowy winters come, avalanche danger and risk exist. The Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC) Accident Database lists six avalanche fatalities in New Mexico; four of which are stated as backcountry or sidecountry. Details of the backcountry and sidecountry fatalities, occurring from 1973 to 1996, are limited. This investigation recalls the stories of these accidents by way of archived newspaper articles and historic weather observations. Additional avalanche rescue training and close calls are also included. By recalling these past events we can maintain the knowledge base of avalanches in New Mexico so that current, and future recreationists and professionals can be more informed for their mountain endeavors and responsibilities.
Object ID: ISSW2026_P4.52.pdf
DOI: https://doi.org/10.15788/1790099394
Language of Article: English
Presenter(s): Jasper Thompson
Keywords: incidents, accidents, case studies, New Mexico, history, forecasting
Page Number(s): 2351 - 2358
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