Science kills Dyatlov Pass conspiracy theories

In the harsh Russian winter, nine students embarked on a ski hike into Siberia and never returned. Their bodies were later found with severe injuries, sparking numerous conspiracy theories, including alien attacks and missile strikes. However, a National Geographic report suggests a scientific explanation: the students died from hypothermia after being crushed by a unique avalanche. The group had cut a shelter into a slope, which, combined with catabatic winds, led to a deadly snow load. This caused a section of snow to break off, resulting in injuries and forcing them to flee their tent.

What event led to the disappearance of the nine students in Siberia?

• A planned expedition into the mountains

• A sudden snowstorm

• An unexpected avalanche

• A long ski hike into Siberia

Which organization reported on the new scientific study about the students' deaths?

• National Geographic

• BBC

• CNN

• The New York Times

According to the study, what was the primary cause of death for the students?

• Russian missile strike

• Hypothermia

• Alien attack

• Animal attack

What did the students do that might have contributed to the avalanche?

• Built a fire on the slope

• Cut a shelter into a slope

• Set up camp in an open area

• Skied down a steep hill

What natural phenomenon contributed to the danger of the students' shelter location?

• Heavy rainfall

• Volcanic activity

• Earthquake tremors

• Catabatic winds