Body of snowboarder found after search on Big White in Kelowna

The search for a missing snowboarder on Big White Ski Resort in Kelowna has come to a tragic end after his body was located late Monday morning.

“A recovery effort is underway with assistance from the Penticton and District Search and Rescue – Helicopter External Transport System,” Cpl. Tammy Lobb said in a release.

The resort became aware that the man was missing after he separated from his friends and went into the backcountry early Sunday afternoon.

The temperature in the village was reported at -26 C as of Monday morning, but the alpine is predicted to be much colder.

“The extreme cold temperatures that we’re receiving right now are always a concern and just elevate that risk factor,” says Lobb.

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North Shore Rescue Team Lead Mike Danks said “avalanche danger [was] considerable in the area… and hypothermia [was] a major concern.”

According to Danks, the unstable conditions of the backcountry made search efforts significantly harder.

The situation prompted a warning to other skiers and snowboarders to be sure they stay within the designated areas and those who are experienced backcountry skiers to adhere to the Avalanche Canada warnings.

“If you are going to go outside please dress for the temperatures in your particular area and please let people know where you are,” Big White Resort’s Michael J Ballingall urged, adding, “Carry the proper equipment with you which includes an avalanche beacon.”

The investigation is being handed over to B.C.’s Coroner’s Service.

Editor’s note: Earlier reports were that the man was skiing, Kelowna RCMP corrected the information to confirm the man was snowboarding.

– With files from Kareem Gouda