As details emerge of a fatal avalanche yesterday afternoon at RK Heliski outside of Panorama, the impacts are being felt across the entire Columbia Valley.
“My thoughts and prayers are with everyone who has been impacted, and with everyone who was involved in the emergency response” says RDEK Electoral Area F Director Susan Clovechok. “I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to all the individuals, volunteers, organizations, emergency responders, and health care teams who responded yesterday. We are so fortunate to have so many amazing and skilled people in our valley who, in the face of tragedy, work together seamlessly.”
RCMP have confirmed 10 heli-skiers were caught in the avalanche, three skiers were killed and four others were injured, including the guide. All of the skiers were foreign nationals and their identities are not being released until next-of-kin can be notified.
“This is a small valley and we all care deeply for one another. There are no words that adequately can convey our sorrow for the lives lost and all of the lives affected by this tragedy,” adds Clovechok.
The avalanche was triggered at approximately Noon yesterday, March 1, 2023.
