A fatality occurred after an individual was caught and buried in an avalanche near Tumbler Ridge in northern British Columbia, as reported by Avalanche Canada. The incident took place in the Bullmoose area, approximately 35 kilometers southwest of Tumbler Ridge, where three snowmobilers were riding when the avalanche was triggered remotely by a snowmobile from the base of the slope.
The avalanche, as detailed in the Avalanche Canada incident report, spanned about 300 meters in width and 240 meters in length. Tragically, despite immediate companion rescue efforts, the individual was fully buried and did not survive.
Avalanche Canada has classified the danger level in the area as “considerable,” the third-highest risk category on a scale of five, indicating the potential for natural avalanches and a high likelihood of human-triggered avalanches. Fortunately, no other individuals were harmed in the avalanche incident.
In response to the incident, a representative from Avalanche Canada declined to comment on specific cases, while the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) did not provide an immediate response to inquiries.
Tumbler Ridge, situated around 175 kilometers northeast of Prince George, British Columbia, experiences challenging backcountry conditions. Martina Halik, an avalanche forecaster with Avalanche Canada, highlighted recent stormy and windy weather in the region. She noted the presence of a rain crust from mid-December, creating a weak layer that could fail under added pressure.
Halik emphasized the importance of checking region-specific bulletins for updated conditions before venturing into the backcountry. She advised individuals to remain cautious, especially in uncertain conditions, and to stick to simpler terrain. Carrying essential avalanche safety equipment such as a probe, shovel, and transceiver, along with receiving proper avalanche safety training, is crucial.
Notably, the province of British Columbia has witnessed nearly 80% of all Canadian avalanche fatalities in the past decade. This serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with backcountry activities in avalanche-prone areas.