Two dead in the Alps: several skiers buried in an avalanche

Aosta (Italy) – At least two skiers have died in another avalanche accident in the Alps. In the Italian Aosta Valley, the mountain rescue service was only able to rescue one of the victims dead from the snow. One died shortly afterwards.

Another skier had to be taken by helicopter to hospital in Turin in critical condition. A search is underway for further possible victims. Media reports said a total of up to six people were buried. Several rescue workers and three dog teams are on duty.

Victims were off-piste

Die avalanche went off on Sunday afternoon around 11 a.m. near the town of Courmayeur. According to initial information, the skiers were off the groomed piste. According to the local news portal “Aostasera”, the men seemed to be aware of the danger in the deep snow: one of the victims had an avalanche transceiver with him, which the mountain rescue service received a signal from. According to the rescue workers, the skiers probably come from France.

Snow masses were blown up in a controlled manner the day before

Sea local According to reports, masses of snow had only been moved in a controlled manner the day before. An explosive charge was dropped onto the mountain from a helicopter, causing an avalanche. Wind and periods of rain have recently destabilized the snow cover. For the area in the Alps There was an increased avalanche danger on Sunday (level 3 of 5).