Columbia Valley Search and Rescue (CVSAR) and Panorama Ski Patrol brought a pair of skiers to safety after they became lost in avalanche-prone terrain.
The CVSAR says the two people found themselves outside of the ski area boundary of Panorama Mountain Resort on Wednesday, March 5.
Those areas may have limited cellular service, so calling for help may not be possible.
“Stay safe and stick to the ski area boundary. Follow in-bounds closures and respect boundary ropes—they’re there for your safety. Beyond the marked ropes and signs, the terrain is unpatrolled and not avalanche-controlled,” said the CVSAR.
Most of B.C. was recently under a special avalanche warning as unstable snowpack conditions were reported across the province.
“We’ve been tracking these weak layers closely over this past month,” said Avalanche Canada Forecaster Zoe Ryan.
“The snow on top of them has consolidated, it’s a recipe for dangerous avalanches. These highly problematic layers remain primed for human triggering.”
The warning has been lifted, but avalanche risks in the Kootenays remain moderate.
Avalanche Canada has a few tips to stay safe in treacherous terrain:
- Sticking to lower-angle slopes (less than 30 degrees).
- Choosing terrain that minimizes the consequences of an avalanche.
- Travelling one at a time when exposed to avalanche terrain.
- Avoiding sun-exposed slopes during warm and/or sunny conditions.
Backcountry users are urged to carry essential gear and the knowledge of how to use it such as a transceiver, probe and shovel.
You can check the avalanche forecast here.
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