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Avalanche near Eklutna Lake: two injured, dog missing
Two men were caught in an avalanche on the ridge between Pepper Peak and Salt Peak, north of Eklutna Lake in Chugach State Park, Alaska. The incident occurred on Saturday, October 10.
The two men managed to activate emergency services themselves. Rescue teams, assisted by airborne rescuers, reached them and evacuated them from the area. Both are in stable condition, but one of them suffered serious injuries.
The partner of one of the injured men, Lauren Joy Padawer, said that his condition and that of the other man are stable and that both have a very good chance of making a full recovery. However, she confirmed that her partner was seriously injured.
The dog Lu Lu, who was with the two men when the avalanche occurred, is still missing. Padawer, who was outside the state, said that the dog's AirTag transmitted its last location from within Chugach Park.
According to her, it is still unknown whether Lu Lu survived. She asked people in the area who can assist with the search to contact her through her original post on social media.
The Friends of Chugach Avalanche Center organization also reported an avalanche with injuries north of Eklutna Lake, but noted that the initial information about the incident was limited.
The incident is a reminder that October can also bring avalanche danger in Alaska, especially for hunters and hikers entering mountainous areas. Early snow can create dangerous conditions even before the start of the main winter season. Those heading into the backcountry are advised to check forecasts, assess snow conditions, and carry appropriate rescue equipment.
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