Fernie Search and Rescue (SAR) was called out today about 1 p.m. to rescue a snowboarder buried in an avalanche on Mount Fernie.

Two males, both from Fernie aged 29 and 30 respectively, were backcountry snowboarding when one of the males triggered the slide and was caught in it, Elk Valley RCMP reported.

The slide, highly visible from town, was estimated as a Size 2.5-3, with a crown 150m wide, 60-80cm deep and with a debris pile around four metres deep, SAR reported on social media.

“As the responders, helicopter and avalanche rescue equipment were being assembled, the two skiers managed to self-rescue without injury.

“While the outcome was a happy one, it is a stark reminder of the instability of the current snowpack as highlighted in the current AvCan forecast, which is climbing to “High” from tomorrow onwards.

“We encourage everyone to play safe this weekend particularly,” Fernie SAR advised.

“Incredibly difficult risk decisions need to taken by SAR when responding to situations like this – this site was not one we could safely enter to effect a rescue. When we need to take steps to mitigate hazard, it significantly slows down our response time.”

Elk Valley RCMP would also like to remind backcountry enthusiasts that with warming spring temperatures, avalanche and snowpack conditions can change considerably during the day and encourage backcountry goers to be mindful of the terrain and avalanche conditions while recreating.

Fernie SAR photo

e-KNOW

Article Share