The search for two missing mountaineers near Squamish, British Columbia has been hindered by severe weather conditions. The experienced climbers, Marc-Andre Leclerc and Ryan Johnson, have been missing since Friday and rescue teams have been working tirelessly to locate them.
According to officials, the pair were attempting to climb the challenging Mendenhall Towers when they encountered bad weather. The search and rescue operation was launched on Saturday after the climbers failed to return as planned.
Despite the efforts of over 20 volunteers and specialized teams, the search has been hampered by heavy snowfall and low visibility. Helicopters have been unable to fly due to the poor weather conditions, making it difficult to access the remote area where the climbers were last seen.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) have stated that the search will continue as soon as the weather improves. In the meantime, they are urging anyone with information about the whereabouts of Leclerc and Johnson to come forward.
Leclerc, 25, is an accomplished climber who has completed difficult routes in Patagonia and Alaska. Johnson, 34, is also an experienced climber and outdoor enthusiast. Both men are well-prepared and equipped for their climb, but the unpredictable weather has posed a significant challenge.
The families of the missing climbers are anxiously waiting for any updates and are grateful for the efforts of the search and rescue teams. They are also asking for privacy during this difficult time.
The RCMP and search and rescue teams are reminding the public to always be prepared and cautious when engaging in outdoor activities, especially in remote and challenging areas. They are also asking anyone planning to climb in the Squamish area to check the weather conditions and be aware of potential hazards.
As the search for Leclerc and Johnson continues, the community is coming together to support the families and the rescue teams. Our thoughts are with the missing climbers and their loved ones during this difficult time.
