In which situation is the airway most likely to become obstructed in avalanche victims?

The situation where the airway is most likely to become obstructed in avalanche victims is when they are buried in snow. When individuals become trapped under snow, it can create a compact and potentially suffocating environment. The snow can block their ability to breathe and access fresh air, leading to respiratory distress and obstruction of the airway. This is exacerbated by the fact that snow can easily form a seal around the mouth and nose, making it difficult for the trapped victim to draw in oxygen.

In contrast, although being unconscious, experiencing frostbite, or being injured can contribute to various health complications, they do not directly lead to the same immediate and critical risk of airway obstruction as being buried in snow does. When buried, the priority of rescue operations often involves ensuring the victim can breathe and is freed from the snow as quickly as possible to prevent suffocation.