5 people rescued from avalanche west of Pemberton – BC
Emergency crews were deployed to an area north of Whistler on Monday, where five people were swept up in an avalanche.
Whistler RCMP said the slide occurred in a backcountry ski area known as “Meadow” on Ipsoot Mountain due west of Pemberton.
Five skiers, including one guide, were caught up in the avalanche.
“Five people were initially deemed missing, but have all since been located,” RCMP Staff Sgt. Kris Clark said in an email.
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Police said four of the skiers were fully buried, while one was partially buried.
A group rescue effort was quickly initiated and was able to dig two skiers out quickly.
The other two were buried for “up to 10 minutes” before they were rescued, police said.
B.C. Emergency Health Services said it was called about the avalanche shortly after 1:30 p.m., and that paramedics and search and rescue crews were deployed.
“Paramedics provided emergency medical treatment to three patients who were transported to hospital in stable condition,” paramedic public information officer Brian Twaites said in a statement.
“Paramedics provided care and assessment to an additional two patients who did not require hospital transport.”
Avalanche Canada said it had been notified of an avalanche in the area but did not have any additional information as of 3:30 p.m.
If the avalanche is notable and will impact public safety, the organization said it will be included in the public avalanche forecast that will be published on Monday afternoon.
More to come.
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