Elbrus Resort Closed on February 3 Over Avalanche Danger
The Elbrus Resort suspended all operations on February 3 due to avalanche hazards in the area.
In recent days, individual trails and lifts were closed due to poor visibility or wind, and today it was decided to suspend the operation of the entire resort. The reason is avalanche danger.
The resort«s social media reported that for the safety of both tourists and staff, they had to close. When the resort will reopen has not been announced yet. According to data from the official Elbrus website, at the »Azau« station it is currently -4…-2 °C (24.8…28.4 °F) with light snow, and at »Garabashi« it is about -14…-12 °C (6.8…10.4 °F) with wind at 15 m/s (33.6 mph).
What to do in case of an avalanche?
The Ministry of Emergency Situations (EMERCOM) explained the rules of conduct in an emergency. If you still find yourself in the mountains at this time, and an avalanche breaks off high enough, you should move out of its path at a brisk pace or run to a safe place or take shelter behind a rock outcrop (you cannot hide behind young trees).
If it is impossible to escape from the avalanche, you should free yourself from belongings, assume a horizontal position, pulling your knees to your stomach.
How to act if you are caught in an avalanche?
If you are caught in the flow, cover your nose and mouth with a mitten, scarf, or collar. Move within the avalanche, using swimming motions with your arms to try to stay on the surface, moving towards the edge where the speed is lower.
When the flow stops, try to create space around your face and chest; it will help you breathe. If possible, move upwards. Once in an avalanche, do not shout — snow completely absorbs sounds.
Recently, the editorial team of 26.RU spoke with a professional athlete who answered the most naive questions from someone who has never been on skis. Why shouldn«t you be afraid, where is it more cost-effective to ski, and how not to lose control? Read more about this sport here.
