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Snowboarder killed in avalanche on Mount St. Helens

While standing near the top, the man caused an overhanging mass of hardened snow to fall, which triggered the avalanche.

WASHINGTON — A snowboarder died Friday following an avalanche at Mount St. Helens.

The Northwest Avalance Center (NWAC) said the avalanche happened after the snowboarder reached the peak. While standing near the top, the NWAC said the man caused an overhanging mass of hardened snow to fall. He fell into a crater, triggering a large slab avalanche on the slope below, according to the NWAC.

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The NWAC said it is working with the Skamania County Sheriff's Office for a full report.

A snowmobiler was killed in an avalanche on March 4 in the south Cascades near Darland Mountain. The avalanche likely occurred due to older, weaker layers in the snowpack according to the NWAC.

Two snowmobilers triggered a slide in an east-facing bowl at approximately 6,600 feet elevation, according to the NWAC. One of the riders was fully buried and died.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates. 

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