Seach and Rescue (SAR) specialists cannot access a pair of skiers killed by avalanche near Smithers this weekend.
Fresh snow and unstable conditions are preventing the recovery of one skier, a 52-year-old woman confirmed dead, and one male who has not yet been located in the snow slide area but is presumed buried.
Two others in the party of four escaped death, sustained only minor injuries, and attempted in vain to rescue the others.
There were four SAR technicians on-scene in the immediate aftermath.
"Due to weather conditions, SAR was unable to conduct search and recovery efforts," said Smithers RCMP Staff Sgt. Sheila White.
"SAR will be joined [Monday] by Smithers RCMP, more SAR technicians and an avalanche-trained dog. The area will be made 'safe' prior to a search being conducted."
The two victims were from Regina and and Canmore. Their names are not being disclosed by police, at the request of the families.
"The current snow conditions are extremely unusual due in part to the ground freezing prior to the snowfall," said White.
"Each backcountry site is unique and has a variety of compounding conditions that can make the site hazardous. Backcountry enthusiasts are asked to be cognizant of these issues."
For details on the avalanche conditions of the province visit www.avalanche.ca.
