SOFIA, Bulgaria — A tragic avalanche on Pirin Mountain in southern Bulgaria has resulted in the death of one individual, with ongoing rescue operations aimed at locating others who may be trapped beneath the snow, as reported by the mountain rescue service on Friday.

Initial reports suggest that the avalanche was triggered by skiers venturing off the marked trails. In response, a specialized rescue team, equipped with avalanche rescue dogs, was quickly deployed to the area.

To date, three skiers have been successfully rescued from the snow. Unfortunately, one man succumbed to his injuries and was confirmed dead by the rescue teams on-site.

The Bulgarian Mountaineering and Skiing Association has issued warnings regarding the perilous skiing conditions due to rising temperatures in recent days. They emphasized that skiing outside of designated areas is particularly risky, with a heightened possibility of avalanches occurring.