Latest news with #STARS
Yahoo
3 hours ago
- Climate
- Yahoo
One dead, three hurt after rockfall hits hiking group at Banff National Park
LAKE LOUISE — A rockfall at a popular hiking trail in Banff National Park killed one person and sent three to hospital Thursday, as rescue crews searched for others who might be missing. Videos posted to social media of the rock slide at Bow Glacier Falls reportedly show massive rocks crashing down a mountainside, kicking up massive clouds of grey dust as people clambered to safety. 'RCMP have confirmed that one person was located deceased at the scene,' Alberta RCMP and Parks Canada said in a joint statement late Thursday. '(The) search will continue tomorrow to confirm that no other hikers remain missing.' Drones and dogs were helping with the search, and geotechnical tests would be done when assessors could get to the site, they said. Bow Lake was closed to visitors, and a no-fly zone was put in place. Anyone missing a loved one was asked to call Parks Canada. STARS air ambulance said two of the injured were airlifted to hospital in Calgary. A third person was taken by ground ambulance. Their conditions were not known. The falls are part of the Bow Glacier Falls hiking trail, a nine-kilometre route open year-round, running along the edges of Bow Lake. It's located about 200 kilometres west of Calgary, north of Lake Louise. It is considered a moderate challenge for hikers and is used by tourists and day-trippers, including families. Niclas Brundell of Canmore was hiking in the area with his wife and said the slide happened a little after noon. Brundell, who said he was unable to immediately speak with The Canadian Press, told CBC that they heard rumbles and small rocks falling, prompting them to start leaving. There were other hikers in the area, he said. 'People kept taking selfies and stuff, and both of us were taking it as a warning sign to at least keep further away from the mountainsides," he told CBC. "All of a sudden, we heard this much louder noise, and I turned around and I see, basically, a whole shelf of a mountain come loose, like something I've never seen before. "(It) almost looked like a slab avalanche but made of rock.' He said there were at least 20 people in the area under the rockfall and, as it crashed down, it sent up the massive rolling dust cloud. 'The scariest part was that whole group underneath the waterfall just kind of disappeared into that cloud formation,' he said. 'My wife thought the whole mountainside was coming loose." They weren't sure they could outrun the cloud, he said. 'I was just yelling at (my wife) to like, 'Go, go, go! We need to run!' And luckily, we got out.' Evidence of the rockfall was visible from across the lake. The side of the mountain near a waterfall was darkened and worn, except for a large patch that was significantly lighter, where a heap of debris lay below. Low-flying helicopters were seen scanning the area late Thursday, making several trips between the rockfall site and the Lodge at Bow Lake. The parking lot to enter the lodge was closed to the public and media, and several ambulances were parked near the hotel. On social media, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said she was deeply saddened. "We are thinking of all those involved and wishing for their safety as we await further details," she said. "On behalf of Alberta's government, I also want to offer my most sincere gratitude to the emergency crews, including search and rescue teams and STARS air ambulance for responding quickly." Federal Emergency Management Minister Eleanor Olszewski, also in a social media post, said: "My heart is with everyone affected by the rock slide near Bow Glacier Falls in Banff." "Grateful to Parks Canada, STARS air ambulance and all first responders supporting the emergency response." RCMP and Parks Canada said snow was expected on Friday. This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 19, 2025. — With files from Aaron Sousa in Edmonton Matthew Scace, The Canadian Press
Yahoo
12 hours ago
- Climate
- Yahoo
Rescuers respond as rock slide hits group of hikers in Banff National Park
LAKE LOUISE — Rescue crews, paramedics and police scrambled to a remote region of Banff National Park on Thursday, after getting word that a group of hikers were hit by a rock slide and it was possible some were killed. At least two were airlifted to hospital. 'The initial report indicated there were multiple hikers and there may be serious injuries and/or fatalities,' RCMP Cpl. Gina Slaney said in a news release. Parks Canada said in a statement it responded to a report of a serious rockfall near Bow Glacier Falls in the Alberta park. The site is north of Lake Louise on the Icefields Parkway, about 200 kilometres northwest of Calgary. STARS air ambulance spokeswoman Kate Langille said in an email two units were deployed about 2 p.m., and two patients were taken to the Foothills Medical Centre in Calgary. She did not have information on their conditions. Niclas Brundell of Canmore saw the rock slide and ran to escape. Brundell, who said he was unable to immediately speak with The Canadian Press, told CBC that he and his wife were hiking in the area just after lunch, when they heard rumbles and small rocks falling, prompting them to start leaving. There were other hikers in the area, he said. 'People kept taking selfies and stuff, and both of us were taking it as a warning sign to at least keep further away from the mountainsides," he told CBC. "All of a sudden, we heard this much louder noise, and I turned around and I see, basically, a whole shelf of a mountain come loose, like something I've never seen before. "(It) almost looked like a slab avalanche but made of rock.' He said there were at least 20 people in the area under the rockfall and, as it crashed down, it sent up a massive rolling dust cloud. 'The scariest part was that whole group underneath the waterfall just kind of disappeared into that cloud formation,' he said. 'My wife thought the whole mountainside was coming loose." They weren't sure they could out run the cloud, he said. 'I was just yelling at (my wife) to like, 'Go, go, go! We need to run!' And luckily, we got out.' On social media, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said she was deeply saddened. "We are thinking of all those involved and wishing for their safety as we await further details," she said. "On behalf of Alberta's government, I also want to offer my most sincere gratitude to the emergency crews, including search and rescue teams and STARS air ambulance for responding quickly." Federal Emergency Management Minister Eleanor Olszewski, also in a social media post, said: "My heart is with everyone affected by the rock slide near Bow Glacier Falls in Banff." "Grateful to Parks Canada, STARS air ambulance and all first responders supporting the emergency response." The Bow Glacier Falls hiking trail is a nine-kilometre route open year-round, running along the edges of Bow Lake. It's considered a moderate challenge for hikers, and day-trippers include families. This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 19, 2025. — With files from Aaron Sousa in Edmonton Matthew Scace, The Canadian Press
National Post
13 hours ago
- Climate
- National Post
Possible fatalities after rockslide strikes multiple hikers on trail in Banff National Park
Multiple hikers are injured or dead after a rockslide at Bow Falls Trail in Banff National Park. RCMP media relations officer Cpl. Gina Slaney confirmed Alberta Mounties were asked to assist in responding to the rockslide and are on location to support Parks Canada, STARS Air Ambulance, Lake Louise RCMP and other emergency responders. Article content Article content 'The initial report indicated there were multiple hikers and there may be serious injuries and/or fatalities,' Slaney said in a written statement. Article content Parks Canada's Lake Louise Yoho Kootenay Field Unit confirmed a serious rockfall incident occurred around 1 p.m. Thursday near Bow Glacier Falls, approximately 37 kilometres north of Lake Louise on the Icefields Parkway, also known as Highway 93N. Article content 'Parks Canada visitor safety teams from Banff and Jasper national parks are responding, with support from other agencies,' the unit stated, adding visitors are asked to avoid the area while crews respond. Article content STARS spokesperson Kate Langille said two of its helicopters — one from Calgary and one from Edmonton — were dispatched and were still at the scene as of 4 p.m. Article content 'More information will be available once they're back at the base,' she said. Article content Temporary highway closures are expected on the Icefields Parkway near Bow Lake to allow for responders to work. Article content Up-to-date information on road closures will be published on Alberta 511. Article content A number of elected officials, including Premier Danielle Smith and the federal minister responsible for Parks Canada, Steven Guilbeault, and Alberta's lieutenant governor have offered their thoughts and prayers upon hearing news of the rockslide. Article content Article content 'We are thinking of all those involved and wishing for their safety as we await further details,' said Smith in her post. 'I also want to offer my most sincere gratitude to the emergency crews including search and rescue teams, and STARS Air Ambulance for responding quickly.' Article content 'Thank you to the Parks Canada visitor safety teams and first responders on the ground,' Guilbeault wrote. 'My prayers are with everyone affected.' Article content I am deeply saddened to learn of the tragic event at Bow Glacier Falls, north of Banff, today. We are thinking of all those involved and wishing for their safety as we await further details. On behalf of Alberta's government, I also want to offer my most sincere gratitude to… — Danielle Smith (@ABDanielleSmith) June 19, 2025
CTV News
16 hours ago
- Climate
- CTV News
At least one death expected in rockslide at Bow Glacier Falls; emergency services responding
A rockslide at Bow Glacier Falls in Banff National Park has hit a number of hikers, CTV has learned. A rockslide at Bow Glacier Falls in Banff National Park has hit a number of hikers, causing at least one death, CTV has learned. RCMP confirmed the incident on Thursday afternoon. Parks Canada is aware of the incident. There are multiple people involved in the incident, and it's expected there are dozens injured. At least one death is expected, officials say. Emergency services have been dispatched. STARS air ambulance is on the way. No other details are available at this time. This is a developing story. More information will be added as it becomes available.
Sharjah 24
12-06-2025
- Sport
- Sharjah 24
Sultan bin Ahmed attends UOS postgraduate graduation ceremony
Commitment to Ongoing Achievement In his speech at the ceremony, His Highness stated that each year, ahead of the graduation event, he is presented with reports detailing the university's accomplishments. He shared his recurring thought: "Will we be able to achieve new accomplishments next year after such an overwhelming number of achievements?" Yet, he added, he is consistently pleased to see that the UOS's journey never halts—it only deepens and expands. Highlighting Major Achievements His Highness, President of the University, outlined the accomplishments achieved by the university this year, affirming that excellence is not a destination but a continuous journey. He revealed that the university recorded 23 major achievements, alongside several others across different fields. Among these was the UOS receiving the Platinum Rating in the STARS (Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System) by the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education, with a perfect 100% score. This made the university the first in the Middle East to receive this prestigious recognition in sustainable education and research. Additionally, the UOS topped UAE universities in the fields of social sciences, humanities, and the arts according to the latest 2025 rankings by the Times Higher Education. Recognition in Governance, Sports, and Global Engagement His Highness continued: 'The university also won the award for Best Entity in Governance Implementation in the Tamayuz Award.' On the student and sports level, the university's football and volleyball teams secured first place in the team sports championship, while the basketball team achieved second place. The squash team clinched the gold medal in the universities' championship. Furthermore, the university was selected to host the upcoming World University Powerlifting Championship in 2026. He emphasised his commitment to ensuring that these achievements are not merely headlines or social media posts, but real, impactful milestones that are felt, translated into action, and invested in for the future. Addressing the Graduates Addressing the graduates, His Highness praised their knowledge, learning, and skills in their respective fields, describing them as the graduates of the UOS. A university that, since its founding, has been a beacon of knowledge and learning—guided by the wise vision and directives of its founder, His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. Appreciation for Faculty and Families His Highness also addressed the university's faculty, saying: 'I reviewed your recent series of meetings, which you approached with seriousness and ambition, resulting in a group of projects that were approved yesterday by the Board of Trustees. These projects will serve as a roadmap for continued development at the university. You taught, guided, and helped shape these brilliant minds—thank you.' He also appreciated the efforts of the graduates' families, noting that they deserve the greatest share of pride for their support, patience, and encouragement, which laid the foundation for this journey. He added, 'Today is not just your children's graduation day—it is the day your joy is fulfilled.' Wishing Graduates Continued Success His Highness concluded his speech by congratulating the graduates on their significant achievement, describing it as the fruit of years of perseverance and hard work. He wished them continued success as they embark on new journeys and pursue big dreams. University Chancellor's Speech The ceremony began with the national anthem of the United Arab Emirates, followed by a recitation from the Holy Quran. Professor Dr Issam Al-Din Ibrahim Ajami, Chancellor of the University of Sharjah (UOS), then gave a speech in which he expressed his joy and pride. He extended his gratitude to His Highness the President of the University for his patronage and for honouring the graduation of a new elite group of postgraduate degree holders. Professor Dr Ajami congratulated the graduates and their families on this achievement, describing it as the result of their perseverance and determination, as well as their families' steadfast support. He expressed his deep gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and founder of the university, who laid the foundation for knowledge and made the UOS a proud institution that embraces ambition and celebrates success. University Vision and Role of Graduates The Chancellor emphasised that the university's various programmes are not merely advanced academic stages but are journeys of research, critical thinking, and reflection. These programmes prepare students to become leaders in their fields and active contributors to scientific progress and societal advancement. He described the graduates as bearers of the responsibility to develop knowledge, build innovation-based economies, guide evidence-based policies, and participate in creating a more sustainable and advanced future. He stressed the importance of linking academic knowledge to societal needs, focusing on research for impact and development, and ensuring that university research outputs are transformed into practical solutions that improve human well-being and contribute to national growth. Call to Action for Graduates Professor Dr Ajami noted that the UOS is committed to ensuring its postgraduate graduates have a tangible impact on society through diverse research programmes, an outstanding faculty and administrative team, significant capabilities, and international partnerships. He called on the graduates to use their knowledge to address pressing issues, propose policies, foster a culture of innovation, and lead teams within their institutions. He expressed strong confidence in their deep knowledge, scientific methodology, and ethical commitment, asserting that they are thought leaders, knowledge pioneers, and carriers of a mission—leaders of change in fields such as education, economy, health, technology, and the environment. He concluded his speech by promising that the university will remain a strong supporter of students and faculty, striving to provide an environment that fosters creativity and contribution. He urged graduates to continue their academic and professional journeys with the spirit of a researcher, the mind of a thinker, and the heart of a person devoted to excellence and service. Graduates' Speech On behalf of the graduates, Sheikh Dr Salem bin Abdulrahman Al Qasimi delivered a speech expressing their pride and joy in standing on the graduation stage, celebrating the end of an exceptional academic journey and the beginning of a new phase of giving and responsibility. He noted that they carried dreams, faced challenges, and now reap the fruits of their efforts at the UOS—a beacon of knowledge and thought founded by His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah. He praised the inspiring vision and continuous support of the university's President, who leads it toward global excellence and intellectual innovation across all disciplines. Acknowledgment of Faculty and Families Sheikh Dr Salem commended the efforts of the academic staff, highlighting their great impact in shaping minds, directing energies, honing skills, and enabling graduates to achieve this academic success. On behalf of his fellow graduates, he offered heartfelt thanks, saying: 'You taught us that knowledge is a mission, that ethics are inseparable from learning, and that a true researcher seeks truth, not praise—lessons we will carry with us for life. You have our prayers, our gratitude from the heart, and our eternal loyalty.' He added: 'After the rights of God, your rights come next. You were the first to believe in us, stayed up when we slept, prayed when we were tired, and smiled at our success. On this graduation day, words fall short of expressing what you've given us in love and care. While we celebrate our achievement today, in truth, this is your achievement first. You planted, and we harvested.' A Message to Fellow Graduates Sheikh Dr Salem addressed his fellow graduates: 'Knowledge is the key to this world and the path to the hereafter. Whoever seeks worldly success must pursue knowledge, and whoever seeks the afterlife must pursue knowledge. Those who seek both must pursue knowledge. Seeking beneficial knowledge is the best effort a person can exert. Through knowledge, societies advance, civilisations are built, and achievements are realised. Walk swiftly toward progress, surpass others in excellence, and raise the stature of our homeland with your achievements. No nation has attained prominence without the pursuit of knowledge by its people. Be its present and future, its fortress and strength, its shield and protection.' He concluded by citing the advice of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah: 'Continue scientific research, for it is the mission of the noble and the path of the learned.' Distribution of Certificates and Closing His Highness the President of the UOS then presented the graduation certificates to the male and female graduates, congratulating them on their achievement and excellence, and wishing them continued success in their future lives and in serving their homeland. Graduates Across Academic Fields The graduates were distributed across the university's various academic colleges, including: the College of Sharia and Islamic Studies, College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, College of Business Administration, College of Engineering, College of Health Sciences, College of Law, College of Communication, College of Medicine, College of Dental Medicine, College of Pharmacy, College of Sciences, College of Computing and Informatics, and the College of Public Policy. The number of doctoral graduates reached 119, while 302 earned their master's degrees, and 16 completed the postgraduate diploma programme. Ceremony Attendees The graduation ceremony was attended by Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Salem Al Qasimi, Sheikh Saqr bin Saud bin Rashid Al Mu'alla, Chairman of the Smart Government Department in Umm Al Quwain, Sheikh Humaid bin Saud bin Rashid Al Mu'alla, Head of the Umm Al Quwain Ruler's Office, as well as a number of senior officials, members of the UOS's Board of Trustees, and many parents of the graduates.
