I first learned about the Dyatlov Pass incident from the Astonishing Legends podcast* a few years ago, and have been fascinated ever since. I've read articles and viewed web resources, and over time have occasionally pondered how to explain the overall weirdness of the event without resorting to supernatural or alien intervention. I came up empty.

For that reason, this article was very interesting, and I find the explanation it offers compelling. I strongly suggest reading the original scientific article it is based on (the link is in the first paragraph) to get a more detailed description of the science behind the explanation.

I think the reason I like the original scientific article so much is that it uses the tools of science - concrete observation, development of a plausible hypothesis, modeling with detailed mathematical analysis, use of experimental data - in a systematic way to give insight into something that at first glance makes no sense. I was educated as a mechanical engineer, and although I don't work in that field, the mechanisms of snow deposition, fracture, and movement outlined are very plausible. Thanks much for posting this!

*One of my favorite podcasts - highly recommended.