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AvalancheOutcome: FatalAvalanche

Avalanche — Mount Washington, Nov 29, 2002

·Mount Washington

32-year-old from Arlington, MA · party of 2

On November 29, 2002 an avalanche swept seven climbers about 1,000 feet down Tuckerman Ravine around 11:30 a.m. Scott Sandberg, 32, was at the base roping up with a partner when the slide hit; he was buried 2-3 feet below the surface and found after a roughly two-hour search. He died of massive head and neck injuries. None of the seven climbers caught in the slide were carrying avalanche transceivers. Forest Service snow rangers had posted a moderate avalanche warning that morning, the second-lowest level on a five-rating scale.

What we can learn

Per Forest Service Snow Ranger Chris Joosen, most avalanche fatalities on Mount Washington occur under 'moderate' hazard ratings; warnings posted at the bulletin board are routinely ignored once climbers reach the snow.

Before you head out: check the forecast, carry the Ten Essentials, leave your plans with someone, and be willing to turn back. See current conditions for Mount Washington →

Other recorded incidents on Mount Washington

Part of the WMNF Hiker Incident Database. Every entry cites a primary or near-primary source; details are refined as the record is reviewed.