A severe avalanche in the French Alps resulted in the death of a skier, sparking renewed warnings about safety in high-risk conditions.
Avalanche Claims Life of Skier in French Alps
Avalanche Claims Life of Skier in French Alps
Tragic avalanche incident highlights danger of off-piste skiing in the Alps.
On Tuesday afternoon, a massive avalanche near Mont Blanc led to the tragic death of a 55-year-old dual national from Brazil and Portugal. The avalanche, classified as "very large" by local officials, struck the area of Les Grands Montets around 16:35 local time. Initial reports mistakenly identified the victim as British; however, authorities later clarified the individual's identity.
The avalanche, measuring approximately 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) in length and 400 meters wide, occurred in an off-piste section of the ski resort where the man was skiing. Ski patrol teams were actively monitoring the ski area and were on their way to close it to the public due to hazardous conditions when the avalanche hit.
Rescue teams quickly responded to the scene, but unfortunately, the skier was pronounced dead after arrival. The local Gendarmerie confirmed that the man's family had been notified and noted that no additional casualties had been reported.
In light of this tragic event, authorities from Haute-Savoie have issued urgent reminders for skiers and hikers to exercise caution, emphasizing the importance of adhering to safety guidelines amidst the ongoing high risk of avalanches in the region.
The avalanche, measuring approximately 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) in length and 400 meters wide, occurred in an off-piste section of the ski resort where the man was skiing. Ski patrol teams were actively monitoring the ski area and were on their way to close it to the public due to hazardous conditions when the avalanche hit.
Rescue teams quickly responded to the scene, but unfortunately, the skier was pronounced dead after arrival. The local Gendarmerie confirmed that the man's family had been notified and noted that no additional casualties had been reported.
In light of this tragic event, authorities from Haute-Savoie have issued urgent reminders for skiers and hikers to exercise caution, emphasizing the importance of adhering to safety guidelines amidst the ongoing high risk of avalanches in the region.
