Inbounds Avalanche fatality at Whistler

A local Whistler who was involved in a Class 1 avalanche in Whistler’s West Bowl on Tuesday, April 5th has been pronounced deceased. The 34-year-old man’s identity has not been released at this time.

Whistler’s Peak Chair opened Tuesday morning following recent storm snow totals of 70-100 cms and alpine wind gusts up to 140 kms. Hundreds of powder skiers were queued at the Peak Chair anticipating the opening.

Avalanche reports from Monday included easily triggered soft slabs below treeline in the morning and explosive-triggered soft slabs up to size 2.

Whistler Blackcomb COO Geoff Buchheister said in the statement, “Whistler Blackcomb and Whistler Ski Patrol extends our deepest sympathy and support to our guest’s family and friends.”

Avalanche Canada has reported that this week’s warm weather has the potential to produce large avalanches across southern BC and Alberta. Always check the avalanche conditions at avalanche.ca before heading out.