Three Killed, One Critically Injured in British Columbia Avalanche

A deadly avalanche near Kootenay Lake swept away a group of heli-skiers, prompting renewed warnings about dangerous backcountry conditions in the region.

The avalanche occurred Monday afternoon in the Clute Creek watershed near Kootenay Lake, southeastern British Columbia.
Three victims, including a 53-year-old guide from Kaslo, a 44-year-old man from Whistler, and a 45-year-old man from Idaho, were killed.
A 40-year-old man from Nelson survived but suffered critical injuries and was rescued by emergency responders.
Avalanche Canada had issued warnings for the area, citing a weak snowpack worsened by recent storms and warm temperatures.
Experts continue to advise against backcountry travel due to highly unstable avalanche conditions across southern Alberta and British Columbia.