Over the last two weeks, avalanches have riddled the news from Europe through North America. The deadliest avalanche in decades roared through the Austrian Alps (Galtuer) on February 23, and another struck Valzur the following day. Avalanches in the Austrian, Swiss and French Alps were a result of the heaviest snowfall in more than 50 years. In Washington State on the Pacific coast of North America, Mount Baker was officially closed, as snow depths exceeding 300 inches buried ski lifts and triggered avalanches. The six sites listed provide background information and facts about avalanches.