2 skiers caught in avalanche in Kananaskis Country, west of Calgary

Search and rescue crews have been called to reports of an avalanche in the Naskiska area, about 100 kilometres west of Calgary.

RCMP confirm they received a call around 12:49 p.m. that two skiers were trapped in the avalanche.

Personnel from several agencies responded to the area as part of the search and rescue effort.

An RCMP spokesperson confirms one of the trapped skiers was able to get out on their own, but the second skier was “unresponsive” when found.

STARS Air Ambulance confirmed to Global News that they were alerted to a scene call in the Nakiska area Friday afternoon, but “stood down prior to launch.”

A spokesperson for the Nakiska Ski Area, also provided a statement to Global News that said “Our hearts are with the family and friends of this individual. We are sending out deepest care to the family dealing with this horrible situation.”

The spokesperson added that a full investigation is underway and more details will be provided when they become available.

Avalanche Canada has issued a warning that strong winds and new snow that fell in the area overnight Thursday and into Friday mean the avalanche danger in the area is high.

More to come.