Extreme Weather Conditions and Increased Search and Rescue Efforts in Whistler

🌨️Whistler experienced 117 cm of fresh snow in the last week, attracting skiers and snowboarders.

⛰️Despite warnings, some individuals ventured out of bounds into steep terrain in Galdi Provincial Park.

🚁Search and rescue teams called for assistance from Northshore Rescue and Talon helicopters, but bad weather conditions prevented aerial operations.

⚠️High avalanche danger and freezing drizzle made it too risky for rescue teams to go in on the ground.

🔑Whistler search and rescue successfully guided all lost individuals to safety using a navigation app.

Why did people venture out of bounds despite the resort's warnings?

—Some individuals are drawn to areas out of bounds for exploration, and the resort cannot prevent them from doing so.

Why were the helicopters grounded during the rescue operations?

—Bad weather conditions, including freezing drizzle and the threat of thunderstorms, prevented the helicopters from flying.

What was the main challenge faced by the search and rescue teams?

—The high avalanche danger across the South Coast made it too risky for rescue teams to enter the terrain on the ground.

How did Whistler search and rescue guide the lost individuals to safety?

—Whistler search and rescue utilized a navigation app to provide guidance and help the lost individuals find their way back to safety.

What should recreationalists keep in mind when venturing out of bounds?

—Recreationalists should have the necessary training, knowledge, tools, and awareness to explore out of bounds safely. Their actions not only put themselves at risk but also endanger the rescuers.

00:00Search and rescue teams in Whistler faced challenges due to an increase in out-of-bounds skiers and snowboarders.

01:15Whistler search and rescue responded to reports of eight people in three groups going out of bounds into steep terrain.

01:50The helicopters were grounded due to freezing drizzle and the threat of thunderstorms.

02:48Whistler search and rescue successfully guided all lost individuals to safety using a navigation app.

03:20The high avalanche danger across the South Coast made it too risky for rescue teams to enter the terrain on the ground.

03:37Recreationalists need to be aware that venturing out of bounds not only endangers themselves but also puts rescuers at risk.

03:59Whistler search and rescue encourages individuals to have the necessary training, knowledge, tools, and awareness to explore out of bounds safely.

04:27Extreme weather conditions and avalanche activity require caution and preparedness when engaging in outdoor activities.