Snowmobiler killed in avalanche in northeastern B.C.: Avalanche Canada

Published on Jan. 29, 2024, 7:11 PM

First reported avalanche fatality of the season in B.C.; agency warning of high levels of risk in many areas

Avalanche Canada says a snowmobiler is dead after being caught and buried in a slide in northeastern B.C. over the weekend.

According to a report posted to the agency's website, the avalanche happened Saturday in the Hasler riding area, west of Chetwynd — about 200 kilometres northeast of Prince George and 700 kilometres northeast of Vancouver.

It is the first avalanche fatality reported in B.C. this season, and the agency is warning of high risks in much of the B.C. backcountry right now due to unstable conditions following bouts of freezing rain and wet snow, along with high winds.

Avalanche Canada says it has received reports of multiple rider-triggered avalanches over the past several days.

Anyone heading into the backcountry is advised to check the local avalanche forecast, make sure they have safety gear and training, and avoid high-risk areas.

Fourteen avalanche deaths were recorded in B.C. last year.

Thumbnail courtesy of Avalanche Canada via CBC.

The story was originally written and published for CBC News.