Rescuers battle fog, snow, as search continues for hikers on Vancouver Island

VICTORIA – Searchers expect to return to the rugged backcountry of Strathcona Provincial Park on Vancouver Island, hoping to spot any sign of two hikers from Victoria.

Rescuers have been growing increasingly anxious since Monday when 22-year-old Jean Simon Lessard and 31-year-old Christopher Yao were reported overdue from a weekend trek to Mount Albert Edward, about 50 kilometres due west of Courtenay, near Buttle Lake.

The men have not been seen since setting out Friday on the challenging two day hike, despite advice not to attempt it ahead of an incoming storm.

Heavy snow and freezing temperatures have hit the region since then, and rain, fog and snow continue to complicate search efforts.

Crews from Comox, Nanaimo and Campbell River are working out of a command centre at Raven Lodge on Mount Washington, with 14 teams scouring a large area.

An RCMP helicopter, Cormorant rescue chopper from CFB Comox and a private helicopter are also assisting, but a significant break in the weather is not expected until Thursday. (CFAX, CTV)