A major ski resort in New York faced a terrifying incident when a large tree collapsed onto a chairlift, stranding skiers and raising safety concerns about the resort’s infrastructure.
What Happened?
The incident occurred at Hunter Mountain, a well-known ski destination. Witnesses reported hearing a loud crack before the tree came crashing down, damaging one of the resort’s primary chairlifts. At least 20 skiers were left stranded mid-air for over an hour before rescue teams arrived.
Rescue Efforts and Injuries
Ski patrol and emergency responders worked swiftly to evacuate the stranded individuals using harnesses and emergency ropes. Fortunately, no fatalities were reported, though several people suffered minor injuries.
Resort Response and Investigation
Hunter Mountain officials released a statement apologizing for the incident and promising a full investigation. The ski resort has temporarily closed the affected chairlift and is working with safety inspectors to assess the damage.
Skiing Safety Under Scrutiny
This accident has reignited concerns over ski resort maintenance and safety inspections. Skiers are now calling for stricter regulations to prevent such incidents in the future.
