Daredevil Mountaineer Brushes Death: Narrowly Avoids Catastrophe
In the heart of New Zealand's Canterbury region, on the 14th of June, 2020, a harrowing event unfolded on the south face of Mt Alma in the Two Thumbs Range. Tom, an experienced climber, and his companion found themselves in the midst of an avalanche while attempting to ascend the NE ridgeline or NE face.
The pair, who had previously scaled peaks such as Malte Brun, Aoraki, Mt Aspiring, Mt Sefton, Mt Arrowsmith, Mt Jukes, and Turret Peak, had chosen Mt Alma due to its location east of the main divide. They had meticulously monitored the weather in the week leading up to their trip and believed the conditions were favourable for their climb.
However, the snow cover was generally thin, and in places, they were occasionally post-holing down to the rocks below. Despite this, they decided to leave their avalanche gear behind, assuming the snowpack would still be very thin.
The incident occurred when Tom triggered the avalanche while climbing. He managed to stabilise himself twice during the avalanche, eventually stopping 300m below where he had been prior to the slope releasing. Tom's partner, using a 'barrel roll' technique, managed to get himself out of the avalanche much higher up.
The incident was reported via the NZ Avalanche Advisory public observation tool and drew the attention of the MSC (Mountain Safety Council) and the Aoraki/Mt Cook Alpine Cliff Rescue Team. Tom required surgery for a cut to the bone in his leg.
The MSC highly recommends carrying avalanche rescue equipment (transceiver, shovel, and probe) at all times when alpine climbing in snow-covered terrain. They encourage learning the basics by completing their free online course and taking a field course from a professional.
Tom, now a firm advocate for avalanche awareness and snow science, expressed that the incident did not put him off climbing but rather made him more interested in the subject. He learned that complacency with a thin snowpack is dangerous and to continually reassess conditions. If given the opportunity, Tom would consider safer ways of accessing the ridge, such as ascending Alma Spur from further down the valley.
The climbers want to express their sincere thanks to the Aoraki/Mt Cook Alpine Cliff Rescue Team and helicopter rescue crew for their swift and effective response. This harrowing experience serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that can lurk in the mountains, even for experienced climbers. It is a call to all to always prioritise safety and be prepared for the unpredictable.
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