Skiers on Chairlift Blasted With Freezing Water

9th January 2022

Last modified on January 14th, 2022

Two people were taken to hospital. An investigation at Beech Mountain Resort in the USA is underway into one of the strangest ski accidents we have seen.

An out of control skier crashed into a snowmaking hydrant beneath a ski lift.

It was badly damaged and the people on the lift above were sprayed with water.

The authorities were unable to turn it off and started up the lift.

Some were then trapped in the spray of the pressurised water as the lift stopped.

One was blown out of the chairlift seat and left hanging on.

Others are reported to have jumped off.

The resort is a local ski area in North Carolina.

In a statement reported by The Independent, Beech Mountain Ski Resort said: “On Friday, January 7, an uninjured guest skied into a water and air hydrant during snowmaking operations.”

“The hydrant was under a loaded chair, resulting in several patrons getting wet. Our operations and safety team worked diligently to unload the lift and drain the system safely. Avery EMS transported two patrons to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.”

Many are questioning the response by the resort authorities.

See here for this TV report with other video from the scene from ABC News.

The resort reportedly wrote in its Facebook comments that “No one was ever instructed to jump from the chairlift. As soon as we became aware of the problem, we took action as quickly as possible to shut off the water and assist the remaining skiers in disembarking at the top of the lift.

“This was a very difficult situation for both our guests and our staff. We very much regret that the incident occurred and we again offer our apologies to the guests that were adversely affected.

“We care greatly for the safety of our patrons and will continue to communicate with all parties involved. We have been truthful and forthcoming in all public statements. Thank you for showing concern.”