A snowmobiler died in a B.C. avalanche on Feb. 18, 2026, despite safety gear, with recovery delayed by hazardous conditions.

A snowmobiler died in an avalanche near Fernie, British Columbia, on February 18, 2026, after triggering a slide in the Matheson Creek area. RCMP confirmed the man, who was wearing a beacon and other safety gear, was fully buried and did not survive. His body was recovered the next day by search and rescue teams, delayed by dangerous conditions. A second snowmobiler was in the area, but it's unclear if they were affected. Avalanche Canada said the slide started in recent storm snow and weakened layers below. The incident highlights ongoing risks in southern Interior B.C., where warm weather has increased avalanche danger.