Three Swiss Heli-Skiers Die in British Columbia Avalanche
Three Swiss citizens died on Sunday, March 23, 2026, after being caught in an avalanche while heli-skiing near Terrace, British Columbia, Canada. A fourth member of the group was seriously injured but is now in stable condition.
Details of the Incident
The incident occurred on Mount Knauss, on the Iridium Shoulder ski run, at approximately 1:28 p.m. Local time, according to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). Emergency responders transported the injured skier to a local hospital by helicopter.
Confirmation and Consular Assistance
The Swiss Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) confirmed the deaths. The Swiss Consulate General in Vancouver is in contact with Canadian authorities and is providing assistance to the families of the deceased.
Avalanche Risk and Cause
Authorities believe the group may have triggered the avalanche themselves. The region was under a considerable avalanche risk due to recent heavy snowfall and warm temperatures following an atmospheric river event.
Separate Avalanche Fatality
This incident occurred on a day with multiple avalanche fatalities in British Columbia. A separate avalanche near the Alaska border, in the Atlin area, claimed the life of another skier. In that incident, a group of five ski tourers triggered the slide, and one skier was fully buried.
Ongoing Warnings
Avalanche Canada continues to warn of significant avalanche risks in the alpine terrain of northwest British Columbia.