A teenager from Soldotna, Alaska named Tucker Challan died after triggering an avalanche in Turnagain Pass, about 60 miles southeast of Anchorage. The 16-year-old was buried about 10-feet deep in the 500-foot wide slide that was caused by a weak layer of snow about 3 feet beneath the surface. Challan rode over this weak layer, leading to the avalanche. The Chugach National Forest Avalanche Center had been warning people of the dangerous conditions caused by this weak layer for weeks prior to the incident. Witnesses stated that Challan triggered the avalanche and was buried as a result. This tragic event marks the fourth avalanche-related death in Alaska this month, following the deaths of three heli-skiers on March 4 near Girdwood. The Avalanche Center continues to advise people to stick to lower angle slopes to avoid triggering another avalanche. Despite awareness efforts and warnings, tragedies like these serve as a somber reminder of the dangers posed by avalanches in the region. Challan’s death highlights the importance of understanding the risks associated with winter recreation activities in areas prone to avalanches.
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