An avalanche at at popular ski resort in California forced officials to close the mountain after at least three people were partially buried under snow and ice.
Officials at Mammoth Mountain, located on the east side of the Sierra Nevada mountain range in the Inyo National Forest, took the measures after the avalanche happened at around 10.15am.
Reports said the resort was very crowded with people at the time of the incident, which resulted in three people being partly buried. Officials said they were able to free themselves.
“At approximately 10.15am on March 3 2018, Mammoth Mountain Ski Patrol was performing avalanche hazard mitigation work when an avalanche released on the upper part of the mountain travelling towards the High Five Express chair,” said Mammoth Mountain Ski Area spokesperson Lauren Burke.
“The area where avalanche control work was conducted was closed for skiing at the time of the incident. Avalanche debris travelled towards the bottom of the lift and ultimately crossed into an area that was open to the public.”
She added in a statement: “Three people were partially buried including one Mammoth Mountain employee. The three individuals were able to free themselves without injury.”
It was the second avalanche at a ski resort in the state in as many days. On Friday, an avalanche on Friday injured two people and closed the Squaw Valley ski resort.
Heavy storms have drenched coastal areas and dumped more than six feet of snow in some higher elevations.
Ms Burke said ski patrol teams were dispatched to the scene immediately and avalanche dog search were brought in. “We are not aware of any missing persons. If members of the public are aware of missing friends or family, please call 760-934-0611,” she added.
She said the resort will remain closed for the rest of the day to allow staff to focus their efforts on the site. It is expected to be open on Sunday.
