A harrowing incident on the slopes of Pic de l’Hortell in Andorra was captured on camera when Spanish skier Ares Masip and his dog were unexpectedly caught in a powerful avalanche. The footage, recorded by Masip himself, documents the terrifying moment when the snowpack gave way, sweeping both skier and animal down the mountain in a torrent of snow and debris.\n\nThe video evidence reveals the rapid onset of the avalanche, demonstrating how quickly stable conditions can transform into life-threatening situations in alpine environments. Masip’s recording provides valuable firsthand perspective of the avalanche’s force and the challenges of maintaining orientation while being carried downhill.\n\nSafety experts analyzing the footage have noted the importance of avalanche preparedness equipment and training. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers of backcountry skiing, even for experienced practitioners. Andorran mountain rescue services have used the opportunity to reinforce awareness about checking avalanche forecasts and traveling with proper safety gear including transceivers, probes, and shovels.\n\nThe footage has garnered significant attention within the winter sports community, sparking discussions about risk assessment and companion safety in avalanche terrain. Remarkably, both Masip and his canine partner emerged from the incident without serious injuries, providing a fortunate outcome to what could have been a tragic event.