KVAL, out of Eugene, Oregon, has released a series of photos taken from family members of two boys who recently got trapped after their snowcave collapsed near Denny Creek, 50 miles outside of Seattle..  The snowcave collapse resulted in a massive rescue effort as family members looked on in horror.

The snowcave is thought to have been made naturally by a nearby creek.  The two boys had stepped inside the cave for a quick photo op when tons of snow and ice came crashing down on them.  Rescue workers spent the better part of five hours attempting to reach the boys who were buried beneath 6 feet of solid snow and ice.  After chipping away at the mass with shovels, axes, and chainsaws, rescuers were finally able to break the boys free.

The last update I have seen had one of the victims listed in serious condition, while the other was listed as stable.  Both individuals had suffered broken backs and were expected to have surgery on Friday.  Most of the injuries involved were due to exposure and the falling ice.

By looking at the photos, which begin with the boys inside the snowcave, it is pretty hard to believe that they were able to survive the collapse.  Luckily, family members heard the collapse and went running for help, while also making a 911 call to local authorities.  Both boys had to be Heli-Evaced from the area, but thankfully, they were alive.  The rescue authorities and the family members all deserve some credit for responding in a fast and efficient manner–luckily, this time things lined up right.  Let’s hope these guys can recieve the required help and get on the path of recuperation.

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