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Three confirmed dead in avalanche near Panorama
An avalanche that occurred at 12:40 p.m. March 1 west of Panorama Mountain Resort has claimed the lives of three German visitors, while seriously injuring four others, police report.
Soon after noon yesterday, helicopters began arriving at Invermere and District Hospital and after several close together trips, many locals began to assume the worst – an avalanche.
The avalanche struck a RK Heliski tour group with nine guests and a guide. Three skiers were not injured.
“One of the seriously injured was the guide,” reported Columbia Valley RCMP Detachment commander Cpl. Jeff Witzke.
A rescue force was quickly assembled, including Columbia Valley Search and Rescue, RCMP and RCMP police dog service, BC Ambulance, Parks Canada and RK Heliski staff.
Avalanche Canada confirmed a serious avalanche but does not have any other information at this time.
It warns backcountry users to steer clear of freshly wind-loaded features. “Wind slabs are expected to remain reactive to human triggers. Avoid thin and rocky start zones, especially in the alpine and upper treeline where deeply buried weak layers remain concerning,” Avalanche Canada reported.
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