Tragic Avalanche Claims Lives of Two Skiers in Washington State

The Dire Consequences of Backcountry Adventures

Two men tragically lost their lives in an avalanche while skiing in the backcountry of Washington State. Paul Markoff, 38, and Erik Henne, 43, were part of a group of four who ventured near Longs Pass, about 65 miles east of Seattle, when disaster struck on Friday.

The avalanche, which occurred around 4 PM, followed a week of heavy snowfall, with some areas receiving between 25 to 30 inches. The unfortunate event serves as a stark reminder of the perils associated with backcountry skiing, especially under rapidly changing weather conditions.

Ice and Snow: A Dangerous Combination

The Northwest Avalanche Center has underscored that most avalanches are triggered by specific weather phenomena, including snowstorms, strong winds, or sudden temperature increases. According to avalanche.org, these hazardous conditions claim the lives of 25 to 30 individuals annually in the United States.

This particular tragedy unfolded just as snow accumulation heightened the risk. Those who survived the avalanche—Ian Laing and Patrick Leslie—utilized a satellite device to call for help. Rescuers from the Kittitas County Sheriff's Department and local volunteers heroically navigated the tumultuous terrain via snowmobiles to provide assistance.

Search and Recovery Efforts

While the survivors were safely evacuated that evening, recovery efforts for Markoff and Henne continued into Saturday, hindered by dangerous night conditions. Authorities confirmed they recovered the two bodies, as well as two snowmobiles and personal belongings, thus closing a tragic chapter in a season that was supposed to bring joy and adventure.

Key Facts

Victims: Paul Markoff (38) and Erik Henne (43) lost their lives.
Location: The avalanche occurred near Longs Pass, Washington State.
Time of Incident: The avalanche struck around 4 PM on Friday.
Snowfall: Areas received between 25 to 30 inches of snow in the week prior.
Survivors: Ian Laing and Patrick Leslie survived the avalanche.
Rescue Efforts: Rescuers used snowmobiles to assist survivors.
Recovery Confirmation: Authorities recovered two bodies, two snowmobiles, and personal belongings.

Background

The incident highlights the dangers of backcountry skiing, particularly in rapidly changing weather conditions, which can lead to avalanches. According to the Northwest Avalanche Center, specific weather phenomena often trigger such disasters.

Quick Answers

Who are the victims of the avalanche in Washington State?: Paul Markoff and Erik Henne tragically lost their lives in the avalanche.
What occurred near Longs Pass, Washington State?: An avalanche occurred near Longs Pass, resulting in the deaths of two skiers.
What were the weather conditions like before the avalanche?: A week of heavy snowfall dropped between 25 to 30 inches in some areas before the avalanche.
How did the survivors call for help after the avalanche?: The survivors, Ian Laing and Patrick Leslie, used a satellite device to call for help.
What did rescuers recover from the avalanche site?: Rescuers recovered the bodies of the two victims, two snowmobiles, and personal belongings.
What time did the avalanche occur?: The avalanche occurred around 4 PM on Friday.
Who provided aid during the avalanche rescue efforts?: Rescuers from the Kittitas County Sheriff's Department and local volunteers provided aid.

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the causes of the avalanche?

The avalanche was triggered by heavy snowfall and specific weather phenomena.

What safety measures can prevent avalanche risks?

Understanding weather conditions and having proper safety equipment can help prevent avalanche risks.

How many lives do avalanches claim annually in the U.S.?

Avalanches claim the lives of 25 to 30 individuals annually in the United States.

Source reference: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/01/11/us/washington-avalanche-kills-2-men.html