A skier was caught in an avalanche in Kananaskis Country, but fortunately was only partially buried and able to escape with minor injuries.
The incident occurred on Saturday afternoon in the popular backcountry skiing area of Kananaskis Country, located just west of Calgary, Alberta. The skier, who has not been identified, was skiing with a group when the avalanche struck.
According to reports, the skier was partially buried in the snow but was able to free themselves and call for help. The group immediately contacted emergency services and a search and rescue team was dispatched to the area.
The skier was located and rescued by the team, and was found to have sustained only minor injuries. They were transported to a nearby hospital for further evaluation and treatment.
The avalanche danger in the area was rated as moderate at the time of the incident, with recent snowfall and wind contributing to unstable conditions. The group was reportedly equipped with proper safety gear, including avalanche beacons, which helped in locating the skier quickly.
Officials are reminding backcountry enthusiasts to always check the avalanche forecast before heading out and to be prepared with the necessary equipment and knowledge to handle potential dangers. They also urge individuals to ski with a partner and to never venture into avalanche terrain alone.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety and preparedness when engaging in backcountry activities. While Kananaskis Country is a popular destination for skiing and other outdoor activities, it is crucial to always be aware of potential hazards and to take necessary precautions.
Authorities are also reminding individuals to follow all COVID-19 safety protocols while enjoying the outdoors, including maintaining physical distancing and avoiding crowded areas.
As for the skier involved in the avalanche, they were lucky to escape with only minor injuries and serve as a reminder of the importance of being prepared and cautious in the backcountry.
