Venturing out for a skiing adventure amidst the icy winds and brutal snow can be thrilling but equally fatal. The snowy mountains in Canada claimed yet another life after a 32-year-old skier lost his life in a skiing accident. The man, part of a group of three, was skiing to Lake Louise in Banff National Park.
Tragedy struck when they were cramponing when the 32-year-old man from Saskatchewan was hit by a sluff that knocked him off his feet as they were climbing Mount Temple. Visibility in such conditions is nearly nothing, and the man was caught off guard. Mother Nature’s unforgiving wrath claimed yet another life.
Skiing trip takes a horrific turn for the trio
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Authorities have constantly raised alarms about the weather conditions in the region and released forecasts with ample warnings. Danger ratings are at an all-time high, and this incident was only further proof. The experienced backcountry skier got hit by a sluff, a small release of loose snow from the rock face above. The other two people in the group had no idea about their friend’s situation.
Only when they made their way, and he did not, was when they understood something went wrong. Worried, they made their way down to look for their friend and found his unresponsive body, which was luckily not buried under snow.
They rang Park Canada authorities between 4 pm and 4:30 pm and sprung into action. They airlifted the duo by a helicopter and retrieved the deceased with the help of a sling.
After further investigation, Park Canada authorities revealed that the accident was caused by a fall, not an avalanche.
Authorities raise alarm bells regarding harsh conditions
Authorities notified the family of the 32-year-old and have ruled out any foul play in the case. As for skiing and hiking in such conditions, the forecast by Avalanche Canada was not too promising. Based on the reports, weather conditions have created slabs at all elevation bands, making it increasingly unsafe and hostile.
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Their statement read, “These slabs are likely to be found sitting on weak layers… As freezing levels rise over the next few days, expect these slabs to become more sensitive to human triggering and to an increase in natural activity.”
ALSO READ: Hiking Turns Into a Nightmare as 3 Hikers Get Caught in a Deadly Avalanche Emergency
This was the third fatal incident reported in the snowy mountains of Canada. A 24-year-old lost his life in a snowmobile crash last week near the Frigate Mountains. He went off track and crashed into some trees, ending his life. Two backcountry skiers were trapped while climbing in the Yoho National Park in a separate incident. It took two separate rescue operations to get them to safety.
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The danger ratings may not indicate an alarming situation, but Mother Nature is dynamic. There is no telling what or when something can strike, and authorities have advised people to be prepared for the worst.
Watch this story: Unveiling 5 Crucial Tips for a Thrilling Snowbound Hiking Adventure