Authorities in Alaska are attempting to reach the site of an avalanche near Girdwood that trapped three skiers, who are believed to have died after being buried in over 30 feet of snow.

The avalanche occurred Tuesday afternoon after a helicopter dropped the skiers on a backcountry peak.

The snow slide, which was up to 100 feet deep, caught the skiers, and despite efforts by guides to issue a rescue alert and use avalanche beacons, recovery teams were unable to safely access the site due to poor weather, the Associated Press has reported.

Authorities plan an aerial assessment to determine recovery options.

Written by B.C. Begley