One person has died in an avalanche at Blackcomb Glacier in Whistler.
Several skiers were swept up in the avalanche.
Four people have been located by rescuers: One was not hurt, two were injured, and one skier was pronounced dead by a local doctor.
Whistler RCMP was called around 3:20 pm today about the size 3 avalanche in the Poop Chutes off Blackcomb Glacier.
Police is working with Whistler Blackcomb ski patrol, Blackcomb Helicopters, and Avalanche technicians and dogs to determine if there are more skiers who may have been caught in the avalanche.
“We have said this multiple times, the snowpack in the Sea to Sky backcountry is unstable and is subject to considerable and high avalanche risks,” said Sergeant Sascha Banks.
The risk extends to popular backcountry areas such as Blackcomb Glacier, Garibaldi Provincial Park, and the Brandywine Bowl, she said.
“I cannot stress enough that you need appropriate avalanche equipment, train how to use it, recognize risk, and have up to date beacons/transceivers and that you know how to use them.”
If you know someone who may have been there or is unaccounted for, please call Whistler RCMP at 604-932-3044.
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