Thompson and Meserve's Purchase, N.H. - A 30-year-old man from Bow, New Hampshire, is recovering in a hospital after triggering an avalanche while skiing on Mount Washington over the weekend. The incident occurred on Saturday morning as the man was skiing down Alpine Gully in the Great Gulf.

According to the New Hampshire Fish and Game Law Enforcement Division, the skier suffered a life-threatening leg injury and required immediate rescue. Fortunately, his friend and another skier nearby rushed to his aid and called 911 for help.

The U.S. Forest Service Snow Rangers initially received the distress call but subsequently alerted the New Hampshire Fish and Game Conservation Officers. As the situation intensified, a National Guard helicopter was requested, and ground crews were mobilized.

In the meantime, personnel from Mount Washington State Park and Mount Washington Auto Road quickly prepared a "SnoCat" to ascend the mountain via the auto road and reach the injured skier. If the helicopter could not access the area, they were ready to trek over the mountain ridge and execute the rescue operation on foot.

Working tirelessly, the skiers cleared a space on the mountainside with shovels, enabling a paramedic and necessary equipment to be lowered from the helicopter. This created enough room for the victim to be lifted safely to the hovering aircraft.

As a precautionary measure, the ground team ascended Mount Washington in the "SnoCat" while the National Guard helicopter departed from Concord, New Hampshire. It took nearly four hours from the initial distress call for help to the helicopter's arrival at the scene.

Once the helicopter reached the injured skier, he was swiftly lifted to safety and flown to a hospital in Lebanon, New Hampshire, for further treatment.

Mount Washington, known for its extreme weather conditions, can be treacherous for even the most experienced outdoor enthusiasts. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness and caution when venturing into the mountains.

Authorities have not released the identity of the injured skier, and it is currently unclear whether he will face any charges related to triggering the avalanche.

Meanwhile, local authorities and rescue teams continue their diligent efforts to keep Mount Washington visitors safe and respond to emergencies promptly.