A Swiss Survivor on What It’s Like to Be Caught in an Avalanche

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by Sabrina Tavernise

February 19, 2026

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A Swiss survivor of a deadly avalanche shares his harrowing experience of being buried under 30 feet of snow in the Swiss Alps in 1993. Heinz Mueller vividly recalls the panic and suffocation he felt as he was trapped for two and a half hours, unable to move or breathe easily due to the sheer weight of the snow. Despite his dire situation, Mueller survived because his colleagues spotted the avalanche and worked tirelessly to rescue him. However, not everyone is so fortunate—avalanches remain a significant danger, with 90 deaths already reported in Europe this season, marking an increase from last year. In the U.S., an average of 27 people die annually in avalanches, underscoring the risks associated with winter backcountry activities. Mueller highlights the critical challenges faced by those buried in snow: suffocation and hypothermia are the primary threats. He explains that even a small breathing space can quickly freeze over, making it feel like “breathing in a plastic bag.” His near-death experience also reveals the importance of creating larger air pockets to stay alive until rescue. Rescuers often face daunting conditions, as seen in recent incidents, such as the California avalanche that claimed eight lives and left one person missing. Weather constraints forced rescuers to evacuate survivors before finding all victims, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of avalanches. The article underscores the importance of understanding avalanche risks and taking necessary precautions for those who venture into snowy backcountry areas. Mueller’s story serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of such environments and the critical role that awareness and preparedness play in survival. His experience also highlights the heroism of rescuers, whose efforts are often tested by extreme conditions and limited time to locate buried individuals. For readers interested in news about outdoor safety and natural disasters, Mueller’s account provides valuable insights into the human toll of avalanches and the importance of education and awareness in mitigating such risks. His story not

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/19/2026