14 Skiers Caught, 1 Killed in Avalanche Near Whistler, B.C. Yesterday

A 33-year-old male backcountry skier was killed in an avalanche in British Columbia’s Callaghan Valley yesterday at around 11:15am.  Callaghan Valley is very near Whistler, B.C.  

Whistler Search and Rescue is reporting that 14 skiers were caught in the avalanche and one skier was fully buried and killed in the Hanging Lake area of Callaghan Valley.

The deceased man is from Vancouver, B.C.

Search and rescue personnel and avalanche dogs arrived on the scene and began the search for the missing skier.

A dog located the deceased skier at 3:25pm.  He was buried under 80cms (30″) of snow, according to Whistler RCMP.

The avalanche rating on Saturday was CONSIDERABLE, the avalanche danger the most people die under.

“People really do need to calm their desire to go out and ski these wide open spaces.  Let the snow settle out and be aware that this type of skiing is way above the risk.” – Whistler Search and Rescue manager Brad Sills

North Shore Rescue and bystanders rescued a backcountry skier from an avalanche on Hollyburn Mountain near North Vancouver on Saturday as well.

“Two incidents Saturday remind us that a potentially dangerous storm/wind slab remains sensitive to human triggering. Caution and restraint is urged at this time. Take a conservative approach as you travel in the mountains Sunday.” – Avalanche Canada