5 skiers rescued after being buried by avalanche north of Whistler, B.C.

A harrowing incident unfolded near Pemberton, B.C., north of Whistler, as four heli-skiers and their guide found themselves buried under an avalanche on Monday. The rescue operation was launched promptly by Whistler RCMP upon receiving reports of the avalanche at 11:30 a.m. PT in the Ipsoot Mountain area, known as “The Meadow.”

The group, part of Whistler Heli-Skiing, encountered a human-triggered avalanche, resulting in four individuals being fully buried and one partially buried. The avalanche was classified as a size 2.5 on the Avalanche Canada scale, indicating its potential to bury or cause harm to a person. Fortunately, another nearby group witnessed the avalanche and immediately sprang into action to rescue the stranded skiers from the snow.

Const. Antoine Graebling of the Whistler RCMP emphasized the swift response of the rescuers, who wasted no time in assisting the trapped individuals. Despite the gravity of the situation, all rescued skiers were reported to be in stable condition. Graebling stressed the importance of vigilance in backcountry activities, especially during the holiday season when many enthusiasts flock to the slopes.

The rescue operation involved Whistler Blackcomb Ski Patrol and search-and-rescue teams, with no indication of negligence on the part of Whistler Heli-Skiing. Graebling noted that the snowpack’s relatively light density played a crucial role in the skiers’ survival, as it facilitated easier rescue efforts compared to denser snow conditions.

As the festivities continue, backcountry users are reminded to stay informed about changing conditions and check avalanche forecasts before embarking on any trips. Avalanche Canada has issued a “considerable” avalanche risk warning for Metro Vancouver’s North Shore mountains, underscoring the need for caution in alpine areas over the coming days.

In the aftermath of the avalanche, B.C. Premier David Eby expressed gratitude to the rescuers for their extraordinary efforts in ensuring the safety of the stranded skiers. Whistler Heli-Skiing is yet to provide a statement regarding the incident. It serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of backcountry activities and the critical importance of being prepared and informed to mitigate risks effectively.