Skier killed by avalanche in Pemberton area

A number of skiers and snowmobilers were caught up in three different avalanches that occurred within minutes of each other near Pemberton Saturday afternoon, killing one person.

Pemberton RCMP say two of the avalanches occurred on Cassiope Peak and one on Mount Cayley.

Four skiers were swept away in the Cassiope Peak area. When Pemberton’s search and rescue team arrived, they found one skier had been killed and two had been injured.

Two people were caught up in the avalanche at the Cassiope Trail Head, but not injured.

One snowmobiler came away with injuries from the third slide on Mount Cayley.

Dozens of others had to be evacuated, with members of Whistler’s rescue team, Pemberton RCMP, Whistler RCMP, Blackcomb Helicopters, and  ground and air ambulance units responding.

“We deployed search teams, including two helicopters, avalanche dogs, and a long line rescue team,” says Pemberton SAR Manager David MacKenzie in a statement.

“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 are warning about additional large avalanches in the coming weeks.

“There is no doubt that the snowpack remains unstable and information from Avalanche Canada and in consultation with avalanche experts in our area there is an immense risk in the Sea to Sky backcountry at this stage,” stated Staff Sergeant Sascha Banks in a news release.

She says people headed out to the backcountry need to check avalanche ratings and plan ahead.

“We also want to thank all the bystanders and those involved who assisted today and to the Search and Rescue teams from Pemberton and Whistler who continue to rescue those in dangerous situations.  Our thoughts are with the family and friends of all who were involved today,” she says.