Elk Valley RCMP and Fernie SAR are warning backcountry users to be cautious in the wake of an avalanche on Mt. Fernie.
According to a detachment press release, on March 14, 2024 at just after 1 p.m. a 911 report of an avalanche was received. Two men, both from Fernie, ages 29 and 30, were backcountry snowboarding when one triggered a slide and was caught in it.
As emergency responders gathered to assist the men, they received word that the two skiers managed to self-rescue without injury,
Fernie SAR said in a social media post that “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 4m deep.
“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 on.
“We encourage everyone to play safe this weekend particularly.“
Fernie SAR added that they must make difficult risk decisions when responding to situations like this one.
“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 also urge backcountry users to be very aware of terrain and avalanche conditions when heading out as temperatures warm.