Chamonix guide in crevasse fall on Vallee Blanche
A lucky escape for a guide yesterday after falling into a crevasse
A Chamonix guide had a lucky escape yesterday after a snowbridge collapsed underneath him and he fell into a crevasse. Thankfully he was able to get himself out safely.
There has been a considerable amount of snow in recent weeks, creating snowbridges across many of the crevasses up on the Vallee Blanche. As many of our readers will know there are more crevasses visible up there this season, due mainly to a long hot summer and then a late start to the winter season, plus reduced snowfall early on.
The recent snowfall has of course improved conditions across all areas of the Chamonix resort, however, these snowbridges that form across the crevasses have not had time to consolidate and so can be very unpredictable and unstable. Even the most seasoned professionals can be caught out by such conditions.
The Valley Blanche should not be undertaken lightly. The guide in question was an experienced professional, equipped with ice axe, harness, ice screws and all the necessary safety gear. Luckily he was able to extract himself from the crevasse, after which he was escorted back to safety by the PGHM.
The PGHM commented that this type of accident is not uncommon and would like to remind people that caution should be taken at all times when undertaking this route.
