On Monday afternoon, five heli-skiers caught up in an avalanche near Pemberton were rescued after being initially reported missing. Thankfully, all individuals have been located and are now receiving medical attention.
The avalanche is said to have taken place at approximately 1 p.m. on Ipsoot Mountain, just west of Pemberton, according to Const. Antoine Graebling from the Whistler RCMP. The group involved included two men and two women, along with their instructor, all associated with Whistler Heli-Skiing.
Graebling confirmed, “The individuals have sustained different degrees of injuries.” Following the avalanche, paramedics provided emergency medical treatment to three of the patients, who were later transported to Whistler hospital where they are listed as stable. Meanwhile, two other skiers were assessed on-site and did not require hospital transport.
It was reported the avalanche was triggered by what authorities described as “commercial activity,” as Whistler Heli-Skiing had two groups making use of the area for related activities at the time. Remarkably, four out of the five skiers experienced full snow burial, with only one partially buried. Graebling noted, “Two out of the five were under the snowpack for just about 10 minutes.”
First responders included employees from Whistler Heli-Skiing who acted quickly, with additional support coming from Whistler Blackcomb ski patrol and Whistler Search and Rescue. Graebovich, the communications manager for Whistler Blackcomb, expressed gratitude for the rapid response from ski patrol teams, stating, “Whistler Heli-Skiing is grateful to its partners and Whistler Blackcomb Ski Patrol for their quick action.”
Notably, the avalanche danger rating for the area was classified as “considerable” on Monday, which indicates significant conditions for avalanche activity. Avalanche Canada had recommended staying to mellow objectives during recent weather changes due to the short clearance between storms.
Prior to the full rescue, unconfirmed details had been swirling when the four skiers were initially reported missing. “Five people were initially deemed missing but have all since been located,” RCMP Sgt. Kris Clark emphasized, assuring the public of their recovery and safety.
The quick proliferation of information and the urgency of the situation highlight the inherent risks associated with backcountry skiing, especially under current avalanche conditions. Individuals venturing out on such terrain are constantly reminded to check relevant conditions and heed warnings provided by local authorities, such as Avalanche Canada.
While the situation appears to have been resolved without any fatalities, the community is reminded of the importance of safety protocols when engaging in such high-risk winter activities.
