Search continues for two missing boaters on Upper Kananaskis Lake

Search efforts for two missing boaters are still ongoing after a tragic incident on Upper Kananaskis Lake earlier this week. The canoe carrying four people capsized on Tuesday, prompting a rescue operation by Cochrane RCMP and Kananaskis Emergency Services. While two paddlers were rescued, a 34-year-old man and a 30-year-old woman have yet to be found.

The missing man has been identified as Chi-Chang Wu by his sister, Chen-Yi Wu, who shared a heartfelt message on social media. She revealed that her brother had been living in Canada since January 2024 and was part of a group of tourists visiting the area from abroad. Chen-Yi Wu is currently en route to Calgary to be closer to the search efforts.

Despite initial rescue efforts, the operation has shifted to a recovery mission, with crews utilizing sonar-equipped boats, dive teams, and a Parks Canada cadaver dog. The search has been hampered by high winds, but teams are persevering in their efforts to locate the missing boaters.

This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of water safety. In the past two weeks alone, there have been several water-related fatalities in the region, highlighting the need for proper precautions. Under federal law, all boaters are required to carry a properly-sized life jacket or personal flotation device for each person on board.

Mike Holroyd, executive director of the Alberta Whitewater Association, emphasized the importance of wearing life jackets, especially in glacier-fed lakes where hypothermia poses a serious risk. He also stressed the need for boaters to be aware of changing weather conditions and to choose watercraft that are suitable for the environment.

Holroyd recommended taking lessons and familiarizing oneself with water safety practices before embarking on any boating excursion. Organizations like Tourism Canmore and Kananaskis offer valuable resources and courses to educate paddlers on staying safe on the water.

As the search for the missing boaters continues, the community remains hopeful for a positive outcome. The tragic incident has prompted reflection on the importance of water safety and the need for boaters to take necessary precautions to prevent future tragedies.