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Skier Rescued After Avalanche, Credits Wife for Survival

3/5/2026

41 10 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Michael Harris, a skier at Stevens Pass Ski Resort in Washington State, survived over four hours buried in an avalanche.
Penny Harris, his wife, used the Find My iPhone app to locate him and alert ski patrol, triggering his rescue.
He regained consciousness in an ambulance with hypothermia, a lung injury, and a broken leg, crediting his wife for saving his life.

History

Historical Context

The Wellington avalanche of March 1, 1910, remains the deadliest in U.S. history, claiming 96 lives when a massive snow slab struck trains trapped by heavy snowfall. This tragedy prompted the American Red Cross and local governments to enhance rescue protocols. The recent survival of Michael Harris in a 2012 Stevens Pass avalanche highlights ongoing risks, with technology now aiding rescue efforts.

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Story summary

Michael Harris, a skier at Stevens Pass Ski Resort in Washington State, survived over four hours buried in an avalanche.
Penny Harris, his wife, used the Find My iPhone app to locate him and alert ski patrol, triggering his rescue.
He regained consciousness in an ambulance with hypothermia, a lung injury, and a broken leg, crediting his wife for saving his life.

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