The warnings for avalanche have been high, and many in-bound areas have been closed. Nonetheless, even experienced and prepared adventurers are losing their lives to the mountain. The Vancouver Sun has provided some details on a rescue operation for one of twelve recent deaths; ten in just six days. Eight died on snowmobiles while four skier/snowboarders have died in the past ten days.

Police liaised with the male’s cell phone service provider and were able to utilize a GPS function on phone to confirm that he was still on Blackcomb Mountain. At 09:35 a.m., Blackcomb Ski Patrol, a Canadian Avalanche Rescue Dog Association dog and handler as well as Whistler Search and Rescue located the male’s body.

The mountain has since posted guards to the entrance of runs like Spanky’s Ladder, Blackcomb Glacier, Harmony Bowl and Symphony Bowl to prevent anyone from entering.