One person has died and two have suffered serious injuries in three separate avalanches in the Pemberton area.
On Saturday, February 5, at approximately 1:20 pm Pemberton RCMP received multiple emergency rescue calls for skiers buried in an avalanched in the Cassiope Peak and Mount Cayley areas. There were reports of injuries and approximately a dozen people in the area that needed to be evacuated.
Pemberton SAR, Pemberton RCMP, Whistler RCMP, Whistler SAR, Blackcomb Helicopters, and BC EHS ground and air ambulance units responded to assist. Pemberton SAR attended to the Cassiope area and discovered a large avalanche on the north face of Cassiope Peak, with the second avalanche on the Cassiope Trail Head.
At least two people had been caught in the avalanche at the Cassiope area but were not injured and were making their way to safety. The third avalanche was on Mount Cayley where a group of snowmobilers were caught in an avalanche and one member of the group had serious injuries.
“We are concerned for additional large avalanches in the coming weeks with the increase in temperatures and sunny conditions, and Pemberton RCMP and Pemberton SAR are asking you to check avalanche ratings and plan your trips prior to heading out in our backcountry,” said Sgt Sascha Banks of Squamish RCMP.
Pemberton SAR deployed search teams, including 2 helicopters, avalanche dogs, and a long line rescue team in response to this avalanche, said Pemberton SAR Manager David MacKenzie.
“It is always difficult for our team when it is not always a positive outcome and our thoughts are with all the friends, families, and those involved today.” Pemberton RCMP will work alongside the BC Coroners Service on this investigation. If anyone has any information they can contact the Pemberton RCMP at 604-894-6634.
Please check www.avalanche.ca for the Trip Planner and conditions prior to planning your adventure in the backcountry.