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Rescue Effort: Over 60 Individuals Airlifted from a British Columbia Park Owing to Severe Flooding

Search parties were dispatched to Bugaboo Provincial Park on August 17, due to the escalating danger to trekkers and mountain climbers posed by swelling creeks.

Helicopter rescue operations conducted in a British Columbia park, saving over 60 individuals...
Helicopter rescue operations conducted in a British Columbia park, saving over 60 individuals amidst heavy flooding.

Rescue Effort: Over 60 Individuals Airlifted from a British Columbia Park Owing to Severe Flooding

On Aug. 17, search and rescue crews were called to action at Bugaboo Provincial Park in the East Kootenay region, due to heavy rain that caused flooding. The flooding posed a significant safety risk to hikers and climbers in the area, leading to the rescue of over 60 people.

The rescue operation was a collaborative effort between Columbia Valley Search and Rescue, Alpine Helicopters, and local search and rescue crews. The teams worked tirelessly to ensure everyone was safely rescued from the park, with no reported injuries or fatalities.

The flooding has caused damage to facilities within the park, and as a result, the Core Area of Bugaboo Provincial Park, including Kain Hut, Kain Hut Trail, Boulder Camp, and Applebee Dome Camp, has been closed until further notice. BC Parks, the park management, made this decision to ensure the safety of visitors and staff.

Unfortunately, the flooding has not yet subsided, preventing Parks staff from assessing the full extent of the damage and the safety of the area. The exact number of people rescued was more than 60, a testament to the quick and effective response of the rescue teams.

The creeks in the park started to rise due to the heavy rain, making it necessary for the rescue operation. Despite the challenges, the operation was successful, and everyone was safely rescued from the park.

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of being prepared and aware when venturing into nature, especially during periods of inclement weather. We hope for a speedy recovery for Bugaboo Provincial Park and a return to normal operations as soon as possible.

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