Three skiers caught in avalanche in Orca Bowl outside of Fernie Sunday

Fernie Search and Rescue was called for support after three skiers were caught in an avalanche in the Orca Bowl.

SAR crews say the skiers were involved in a size 3 skier-triggered avalanche on Sunday, where one skier was fully buried and dug out by his group.

Fernie SAR avalanche technicians responded with Ascent Helicopters and were able to extricate the injured skier.

SAR crews say good luck prevented this incident from having a much worse outcome.

Avalanche Canada warns that the avalanche risk is considerable throughout the entire East Kootenay and Elk Valley region.

They say storm slabs and buried weak layers can surprise and create large avalanche conditions.

Forecasters add you should assess conditions while you travel and watch for signs of instability like whumpfing, cracking and recent avalanches.