Four Dead in Northern B.C. Avalanche Tragedies

Toronto, March 24 — Four people have died in separate avalanche incidents across northern British Columbia in what officials are calling one of the deadliest weekends for backcountry recreation in recent memory, prompting renewed warnings about the dangers of avalanche terrain.

Three heli-skiers were killed Sunday when they were caught in a massive avalanche on the Iridium Shoulder ski run on Mount Knauss, north of Terrace. The victims, whose identities have not yet been released pending notification of next of kin, were part of a guided group when the slide occurred.

In a separate incident the same day, a fourth person died in another avalanche in northern B.C., bringing the weekend death toll to four. The exact location of the second incident has not been disclosed as search and rescue operations continue.

\”This is an absolutely devastating weekend for our communities,\” said Terrace Mayor Carol Leclerc. \”Our hearts go out to the families of those who lost their lives, and we extend our deepest condolences during this incredibly difficult time.\”

Helicopter skiing operators in the region have temporarily suspended operations while officials investigate the cause of the Mount Knauss slide. Avalanche Canada has issued high danger ratings for much of northern B.C., citing unstable snowpack conditions following recent storms.

\”The snowpack structure right now is extremely complex,\” said Avalanche Canada forecaster Simon Horton. \”We’ve got multiple weak layers that are showing signs of instability. Backcountry travelers need to exercise extreme caution.\”

The deaths add to a concerning trend this winter season. Prior to this weekend, seven people had already died in avalanches across Canada this winter, making 2025 one of the deadliest avalanche seasons in years.

Search and rescue teams have been working in challenging conditions to recover the bodies and investigate the incidents. Poor weather has hampered efforts, with low visibility and additional snowfall creating ongoing risks for rescue personnel.

The incidents have reignited debate about backcountry safety and the responsibilities of commercial operators. Heli-skiing remains a popular but high-risk activity that attracts thousands of adventure seekers to B.C.’s remote mountain regions each year.

\”These operators have extensive safety protocols, but avalanches are unpredictable forces of nature,\” said B.C.’s Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport, Lana Popham. \”We will be conducting a thorough review to ensure all safety measures were followed.\”

Meanwhile, a massive avalanche triggered by Parks Canada staff during avalanche control work on Highway 93 has closed Alberta’s iconic Icefields Parkway until at least Saturday. The 500-metre-wide slide has completely blocked the scenic route that connects Jasper and Banff national parks.

\”This was a controlled slide that was larger than anticipated,\” said Parks Canada spokesperson John Smith. \”Our priority is ensuring the highway is safe before reopening to traffic.\”

The closure has disrupted travel plans for thousands of tourists during what is typically the beginning of spring skiing season. Alternative routes require significant detours, and visitors are being advised to check road conditions before traveling.

Avalanche Canada continues to urge anyone venturing into the backcountry to check daily forecasts, carry essential safety equipment including transceivers, probes, and shovels, and ensure they have proper training in avalanche safety.

\”These tragedies are a stark reminder that avalanche terrain demands respect,\” Horton said. \”No powder turn is worth your life.\”

Sources: Global News, CTV News, Avalanche Canada