12 April 08

Sadly an 81 year old male skier died after he fell into the Shomyo River in the popular Tateyama backcountry area.  He lived in nearby Toyama and was on a day-long backcountry trip and failed to return home that evening.  His body was located by helicopter.  The fall was reported as happening at around 900m.

Note:  I do not know the area of the incident, but the the Kita Alps are well known for having very steep sided ravines with turbulent and fast flowing rivers at this time of year.  It is a hazard in these mountains and I can see how unfortunately such terrain features can lead to accidents like this.  It emphasises the need for careful route finding and being always aware of loose soft spring snow and stones falling from above or giving way below your feet on steep sided terrain.  Even a short fall in seemingly safe terrain can lead to a nasty end if you are alone, sustain an injury and end up in the very cold water as evening approaches.