A video captured chair lifts at an Italian ski resort in the Swiss Alps twisting and turning after being hit by sudden gusts of wind while passengers were still riding them. The incident occurred at the Cervino Ski Paradise in Breuil-Cervinia, a popular tourist destination at the base of the Matterhorn. Skier Andy Crabtree shared a video showing 10 damaged chairs being taken out of service after the lift reopened the next day. One skier, Barnaby Dunning, described feeling like he was in a “washing machine” as wind speeds reached up to 70 miles per hour, causing moments of panic and fear.
The experienced skier shared that he had never seen chair lifts rotate in such a manner, causing passengers to be thrown around during the harrowing experience. The resort reported that the lift was closed due to poor weather conditions, with those still on the lift being the last skiers heading to the upper station. Despite the terrifying ordeal, all passengers were able to reach their destination safely. The incident serves as a reminder of the dangers that unpredictable weather conditions can pose in alpine environments, even for experienced skiers and snowboarders.
The video of the chair lifts twisting and turning in the wind highlights the importance of safety measures in ski resorts and the potential risks associated with extreme weather conditions. While skiing and snowboarding are popular winter sports, incidents like these serve as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of mountain environments and the need for caution when participating in such activities. Chair lifts are essential for transporting skiers and snowboarders to higher elevations, but they can also pose risks in adverse weather conditions.
The resort’s decision to close the ski lift due to poor weather conditions shows the importance of prioritizing safety in such situations. Passengers on the lift were fortunate to have reached their destination safely despite the frightening experience. The incident underscores the need for ski resorts to have emergency protocols in place for dealing with sudden gusts of wind and other weather-related hazards, ensuring the safety of their guests.
The story of the chair lifts twisting in the wind serves as a cautionary tale for skiers and snowboarders about the potential dangers of extreme weather conditions in alpine environments. The video footage shared on social media captures the intensity of the situation and the fear experienced by those caught in the midst of it. While skiing and snowboarding can be exhilarating activities, it is important to always be aware of the risks and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the slopes.
Overall, the incident at the Cervino Ski Paradise in Breuil-Cervinia serves as a reminder of the importance of safety measures and preparedness in ski resorts when dealing with adverse weather conditions. The swift action taken to close the ski lift and ensure the safe arrival of all passengers underscores the commitment to prioritizing guest safety. As winter sports enthusiasts continue to flock to the Swiss Alps and other alpine destinations, it is essential to be mindful of the potential risks and to adhere to the guidance provided by resort staff to prevent accidents and ensure a fun and secure skiing experience.
