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An American skier, Kyle Watson from Seattle, tragically lost his life on Tuesday, February 18, after being buried in deep snow at Japan’s Geto Kogen Ski Resort in Iwate Prefecture. Watson, the founder and CEO of ADL Ski Club, had been guiding ski groups in Japan for several weeks prior to the incident.
Local authorities reported that Watson was skiing with two companions in a forested area outside the resort’s designated trails when he was caught in an avalanche or deep snow immersion event. His companions reported him missing around 11:30 a.m., initiating a four-hour search. Rescue teams eventually found him in cardiac arrest in a restricted zone near a gondola. He was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident, including whether Watson and his group disregarded resort warnings. Geto Kogen’s management confirmed that the area where Watson was found is clearly marked as off-limits, with signboards and announcements discouraging entry. The resort’s backcountry terrain is popular among powder-seeking skiers, but heavy snowfall and strong winds at the time had significantly increased avalanche risks. Multiple avalanche warnings had been issued for the Tohoku region in the days leading up to the incident.
Geto Kogen, located in Kitakami, Iwate Prefecture, is renowned for its deep powder and extensive tree runs. The resort receives over 15 meters (approximately 50 feet) of snowfall annually, making it one of Japan’s snowiest destinations. With an elevation of 1,070 meters (3,510 feet) and a vertical drop of 430 meters (1,410 feet), the resort offers six gondolas and lifts, providing access to both groomed runs and off-piste terrain.
Despite its relatively modest size compared to major Japanese ski destinations like Hakuba or Niseko, Geto Kogen has earned a reputation among advanced skiers for its challenging tree skiing and sidecountry access. However, resort officials have consistently cautioned against venturing beyond designated areas, especially during periods of heavy snowfall.
Watson was an experienced skier and a prominent figure in the global ski community. His company, ADL Ski Club, organized trips to ski destinations worldwide, including Switzerland, Chile, and Japan. Friends and family have launched a GoFundMe campaign to assist with funeral and memorial expenses. The campaign highlights Watson’s passion for skiing and his dedication to sharing that passion with others.
This incident serves as a somber reminder of the inherent risks associated with backcountry and off-piste skiing, underscoring the importance of adhering to avalanche warnings and traveling safety.
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