Hypothermic backcountry skiers stuck in deep snow rescued overnight near Big White

Search and rescue was called to the Big White area last night to help two backcountry skiers.

Central Okanagan Search and Rescue (COSAR) said it was the third task of this nature this month— the first two ended up being completed by Big White Ski Patrol, however last night COSAR was needed.

Ski Patrol were notified through the RCMP, who received a distress through Apple Emergency Satellite around 2:15 pm.

The COSAR snowmobile and backcountry teams assisted with six members, who snowmobiled into the Moonlight Bowl area.

Three members then climbed up-hill on their skis for three kilometres through dense forest to where the subjects were located.

The skiers were found stuck in deep snow and suffering from hypothermia.

Rescuers warmed them and equipped them with snowshoes so that they could be walked back to the snowmobiles. The group was able to return to base by 3:40 am.

“COSAR would like to remind skiers interested in exploring the backcountry to carry all the proper gear and if they don't know the area, be prepared to spend the night,” search and rescue warned.

Big White Ski Resort also issued a reminder to people to stay in bounds.

"Backcountry travel is extremely dangerous, and rescues put multiple lives at risk—not just your own but also those of the teams sent to save you. Always respect resort boundaries and stay in marked areas. If you plan to explore outside the ski area, you must be properly equipped and understand the risks."