Search and rescue crews were called into action Saturday afternoon after a solo skier became stranded in the Strathcona Park backcountry following a series of avalanches.
Comox Valley Search and Rescue says RCMP reached out for assistance after the 29-year-old skier, who SAR called “experienced” and “well-prepared,” called 911 after reaching a safe location.
The skier “became stranded following what she described as a series of avalanche events in the Mt, Beecher area of Strathcona Park,” Comox Valley SAR said in a statement.
“The late season snowpack and cooler temperature have allowed many backcountry enthusiasts to don their skis late into the season.”
An RCMP helicopter flew in the SAR team, who then found the woman and flew her to safety.
Comox Valley SAR members were flown in to a remote area of Strathcona Park to rescue a stranded skier Saturday, June 11, 2022. (Courtesy Comox Valley SAR)
Officials say it’s a good thing the woman carried a satellite phone, which allowed her to make contact with her partner and communicate throughout the five-hour rescue, because her cell phone failed “as is often the case in these situations,” CVSAR said.
Anyone heading into the backcountry is reminded to check conditions before they go, travel with a partner and bring essentials to keep themselves warm and dry in case they become delayed or stranded.
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