By Dave Branco

Freeze-thaw cycles create deadly conditions with B.C. lakes and rivers this Winter

Feb 25, 2026 | 12:17 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – Two snowmobilers lost their lives near Anahim Lake after breaking through the ice on Charlotte Lake on February 17, 2026, a tragedy that highlights the dangers of this year’s unstable ice conditions. Search Manager Dave Merritt of Prince George Search and Rescue says a pattern of cold spells followed by significant warming has made ice across the region thinner and less predictable than usual, with hidden springs and snow cover making it impossible to judge thickness by sight alone. Both Merritt and the RCMP are urging the public to be prepared, take an ice rescue course, and consider avoiding frozen lakes and rivers entirely for activities like snowmobiling, ice fishing, and snowshoeing.