I've a lot of experience in back-country, including places like Iran where I skied several peaks. The one time I got into trouble (we had to be rescued by helicopter) was a scarily similar situation to this. I was with a large group (12) of some of the most experienced back-country people I've ever met. I was far and away the least experienced. This group included two Everest summitteers and the head of a mountain rescue service. Because everyone was so experienced they all assumed everyone else was taking the right decisions so they could switch off and relax. Group dynamics are everything in this situation - as they are in any sufficiently complex environment. Luckerly, after a cold night in a snow hole, we were rescued but my learnings were:
1) You need to always have a leader
2) The whole group needs to be aware of the plan at all times, you cannot over communicate
3) Listen to the nagging voice of intuition - if something feels wrong check that feeling out
4) Experts are not always on the top of their name, especially when tired or cold
1) You need to always have a leader
2) The whole group needs to be aware of the plan at all times, you cannot over communicate
3) Listen to the nagging voice of intuition - if something feels wrong check that feeling out
4) Experts are not always on the top of their name, especially when tired or cold
Stay safe this winter people!