Mechanisms of slab avalanche release and impact in the Dyatlov Pass incident in 1959

Abstract The Dyatlov Pass incident is an intriguing unsolved mystery from the last century. In February 1959, a group of nine experienced Russian mountaineers perished during difficult expedition in northern Urals. A snow avalanche hypothesis was proposed, among other theories, but found to be inconsistent with evidence lower-than-usual slope angle, scarcity signs, uncertainties about trigger mechanism, and abnormal injuries victims. challenge explaining these observations has led us physical mechanism for slab caused by progressive wind-blown accumulation on above hikers’ tent. Here we show how combination irregular topography, cut made install tent subsequent deposition induced strong katabatic winds contributed after suitable time release, which severe non-fatal injuries, agreement autopsy results.