A fatality occurred as an individual was caught and buried in an avalanche near Tumbler Ridge in northern British Columbia, as reported by Avalanche Canada. The incident involved three snowmobilers in the Bullmoose area, approximately 35 kilometers southwest of Tumbler Ridge. The avalanche was triggered remotely by a snowmobile from the base of the slope and measured around 300 meters wide by 240 meters long, according to Avalanche Canada’s incident report.
Despite immediate companion rescue efforts, the individual was fully buried and did not survive, the report stated. The area’s avalanche risk was classified as “considerable,” indicating the potential for natural avalanches and a high likelihood of human-triggered avalanches.
Fortunately, no other individuals were harmed in the avalanche. Avalanche Canada declined to comment on specific incidents, while the RCMP did not respond to requests for comment. Tumbler Ridge is situated about 175 kilometers northeast of Prince George, British Columbia.
Avalanche forecaster Martina Halik highlighted recent stormy and windy conditions in the Tumbler Ridge region. She pointed out the presence of a rain crust formed in mid-December, creating a weak layer that can fail under pressure. Halik recommended checking region-specific bulletins for up-to-date conditions before venturing into the backcountry.
For safety in avalanche terrain, Halik advised individuals to remain vigilant, opt for simpler terrain when unsure of conditions, carry essential gear such as a probe, shovel, and avalanche transceiver, and undergo proper avalanche safety training. An official statement from the province indicated that nearly 80% of all Canadian avalanche fatalities in the past decade occurred in British Columbia.