An avalanche at a northern Idaho ski resort Tuesday morning killed at least two people, according to emergency officials and the resort.
Five other skiers were rescued with only minor injuries.
The Shoshone County Sheriff's Office said in a statement that “5 individuals were rescued and 2 were recovered” after the disaster in the Wardner Peak area of Silver Mountain Resort.
The sudden snowslide happened about 11 a.m. Tuesday, according to reports. The sheriff’s office said it received reports of up to three separate avalanches on the mountain.
Search teams with the Silver Mountain Ski Patrol and Shoshone County Volunteer Search and Rescue assisted police in the search for victims. Rescue dogs were also used to help the recovery effort.
The resort also confirmed the deaths and injuries in a Facebook post.
“Indications are all skiers are now accounted for. Silver Mountain extends our deepest condolences to everyone affected,” the resort said.
The resort closed its doors Wednesday in the aftermath of the disaster.
The deceased victims have not been identified.
Officials said the seven skiers were the only ones in the path of the avalanche.
The National Weather Service issued an avalanche warning just after 8 a.m. Tuesday. One meteorologist said the warning was due to heavy snow and wind conditions, especially in back-country areas.
It was not clear if the group had heard about the warnings.
Wardner Peak is known for steep slopes that attract more experienced skiers.
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