A skier in the backcountry was engulfed in an avalanche, trapped in snow up to their waist and carried down a slope near Lake Louise on Tuesday. Fortunately, they escaped unharmed.
Parks Canada reported that their staff swiftly responded to the avalanche incident that occurred on the off-piste route known as the “Vortex,” situated beyond the boundaries of the Lake Louise Ski Area in Banff National Park. The video footage of the incident was released by Parks Canada as a cautionary measure for other mountain enthusiasts.
The skier triggered a size 2 avalanche while descending a slope at approximately 2,450 meters elevation, according to Parks Canada. Avalanche Canada defines a size 2 avalanche as capable of ‘burying, injuring, or killing a person.’
Described as a “deep persistent slab” avalanche, the event involved a heavy layer of snow resting atop a weaker layer near the ground. Avalanche forecaster Tyson Rettie emphasized that when the weak layer collapses, it can lead to a more significant and destructive snow movement compared to other avalanche scenarios.
Notably, the avalanche left exposed rocks in its path, as observed by guide Barry Blanchard from the Yamnuska Mountain School. Blanchard commented on the skier’s fortune in avoiding traumatic injuries from rock impacts and being only partially buried in snow.
Parks Canada highlighted that the involved skiers were experienced, well-equipped, followed safety protocols by descending individually, and had a designated regrouping spot. Rettie mentioned the challenges of forecasting and identifying deep persistent slabs, emphasizing the lack of warning signs before such avalanches occur.
While the current avalanche risk is moderate in alpine areas of Kananaskis Country and Banff, Rettie stressed the importance of recognizing deep slab avalanche risks. Backcountry skiers are urged to remain cautious, especially in areas with rapid snow depth changes near rocky areas or thin snow patches.
Rettie recommended that individuals venturing into avalanche terrain should always carry essential rescue equipment like a transceiver, probe, and shovel, and check the daily avalanche forecast before embarking on their journey. Being prepared is crucial as accidents can occur unexpectedly.
