Three skiers were killed in an avalanche and critically injured a fourth in British Columbia, Canada. The disaster struck on Monday afternoon on the east side of Kootenay Lake.
The four men had just finished skiing in an alpine area, 700 kilometers (435 miles) east of Vancouver. They waited in a staging area below the tree line with another group when the avalanche hit.
A transport helicopter pilot saw the avalanche start and immediately sounded the siren. One group of skiers escaped, but the other was caught in the moving snow. The avalanche carried them into the tree line, making rescue efforts difficult.
Search and rescue teams arrived quickly after receiving reports of the disaster. Rescuers found three men dead at the scene. The victims included a 45-year-old from Idaho, a 44-year-old from Whistler, British Columbia, and their 53-year-old guide from Kaslo. The fourth skier, a 40-year-old from Nelson, British Columbia, survived but suffered critical injuries. Paramedics transported him to a hospital for emergency treatment.
Stellar Heli Skiing confirmed its involvement in the incident. “Kaslo Search and Rescue responded quickly with four specialized winter response technicians,” the company said. “Our deepest condolences go to the families and loved ones of those affected.”
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Meanwhile, The tragedy happened days after Avalanche Canada issued a special warning for the region. The advisory covered Banff, Yoho, Kootenay, and Jasper National Parks, as well as Kananaskis Country. Experts warned that recent storms had created dangerous snow conditions.
“Recent storm snow overlies a weak snowpack structure and has produced numerous very large avalanches over the last two weeks,” Avalanche Canada stated. “These conditions have led to widespread avalanche activity, even in forested areas, and could persist in adjacent regions.”
Avalanches remain a serious risk for backcountry skiers, snowboarders, and snowmobilers. Experts urge outdoor enthusiasts to check avalanche forecasts before traveling into remote areas. They recommend carrying essential safety equipment, including transceivers, probes, and shovels.
Further more, Authorities continue to monitor conditions as temperatures rise, increasing avalanche risks. Officials warn people to postpone backcountry activities until the snowpack stabilizes.
Monday’s avalanche highlights the dangers of skiing in unstable conditions. The skiing community now mourns the loss of three experienced adventurers.
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