In a heartbreaking turn of events, two skiers have lost their lives due to separate avalanche incidents in the Alberta backcountry. On Friday afternoon, the first tragedy struck near the picturesque Lake Louise, while the second incident occurred in the Kananaskis Country region.

Stuart Brideaux, a spokesperson from Alberta Health Services EMS, reported that the first skier died after being caught in an avalanche while skiing "out of bounds" from the Lake Louise ski area. According to an incident report posted on Avalanche Canada’s website, the skier was attempting to return from the backcountry when the avalanche was triggered. The second skier, who was with him, managed to extricate him from around two meters of snow and began administering first aid. Unfortunately, despite these efforts, he was later pronounced dead.

Dan Markham, the communications director for the Lake Louise Ski Resort, emphasized that the avalanche occurred outside the resort’s boundaries, highlighting the inherent risks associated with skiing in unpatrolled areas.

Tragically, later in the afternoon, another avalanche claimed the life of a skier near the Black Prince day use area within Peter Lougheed Provincial Park. These latest incidents serve as a disturbing reminder of the dangers that come with backcountry skiing, especially when skiers venture beyond designated areas where avalanche risks can be significantly higher.

As winter sports enthusiasts are drawn to the allure of untouched powder, experts urge caution and respect for avalanche dangers. This season, icy conditions and heavy snowfall increase the likelihood of avalanches, making it crucial for skiers to be equipped with knowledge, safety gear, and proper training before heading into the backcountry.

Stay safe, stay informed, and always prioritize safety when enjoying winter sports. The mountains can be both beautiful and deadly—make sure you're prepared for whatever may come your way.