2008-09 Avalanche Fatality Update: 2

The death toll from avalanche related activities in the United States for this new winter season currently stands at 2.  Both fatalities happened on 14 December.  One death was in Utah while the other ocurred in Colorado.

Please remember to be careful in the backcountry.  Always wear a beacon and be safe.

The Ride Utah Blog has posted links to snow safety videos from the Utah Avalanche Center.  This is great information for everyone.

Wintry Weather Halts Travel In West

For many travelers in the western United States, a nightmare is becoming reality.  Airport delays, clogged roadways, and full hotels are all adding to the misery.

In the Seattle area snow rarely causes a problem.  However, this season has been different.  The city, unprepared for such downfalls, has been caught short on snow melting supplies such as sand and salt.  Add to that the problem of fewer but fuller flights from the airlines and many are left to simply try driving or cancel their plans altogether.

While listening to NPR this morning, I heard a woman saying her family had decided to delay their Christmas celebration by a week. 

Whatever decisions these weary travelers make, hopefully all will be safe and be able to enjoy the spirit of Christmas this year.

-Tommy