Snowmobiler killed in avalanche in northeastern B.C., Avalanche Canada says

Avalanche Canada says a snowmobiler is dead after being caught and buried in a slide in northeastern B.C. over the weekend.

According to a report posted to the agency's website, the avalanche happened Saturday in the Hasler riding area, west of Chetwynd — about 200 kilometres northeast of Prince George and 700 kilometres northeast of Vancouver.

It is the first avalanche fatality reported in B.C. this season, and the agency is warning of high risks in much of the B.C. backcountry right now due to unstable conditions following bouts of freezing rain and wet snow, along with high winds.

Avalanche Canada says it has received reports of multiple rider-triggered avalanches over the past several days.

Anyone heading into the backcountry is advised to check the local avalanche forecast, make sure they have safety gear and training, and avoid high-risk areas.

14 avalanche deaths were recorded in B.C. last year.

WATCH | Search and rescue team urges backcountry users to take avalanche training:

Experts offer safety training as forecasters predict a severe avalanche season in B.C.

2 years ago

Duration 1:31

Avalanche Canada is warning that B.C.'s snowpack this year is unusually weak and will be more vulnerable to avalanches. A Prince George Search and Rescue group is hoping those heading to the backcountry will take the time to train themselves in case of an avalanche disaster.