Rescue teams confirmed the tragedy occurred in Les Grands Montets, prompting a warning for heightened avalanche risks in the region.
Avalanche Tragedy Claims Life of Skier in French Alps
Avalanche Tragedy Claims Life of Skier in French Alps
A 55-year-old man dies after being buried by a massive avalanche near Mont Blanc.
The French Alps witnessed a tragic accident on Tuesday afternoon when a substantial avalanche claimed the life of a skier. The victim, who held dual Brazilian-Portuguese nationality, was found in the popular ski resort of Les Grands Montets, located at the foot of Mont Blanc. The avalanche struck around 16:35 local time, measuring approximately 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) in length and 400 meters wide, alarming local authorities and ski patrols.
Initially, there was confusion surrounding the skier's nationality, with early reports suggesting he was British. However, local officials, including the Chamonix High Mountain Gendarmerie Platoon (PGHM), clarified the information a day later. The avalanche occurred in an off-piste area where the man, aged 55, had been skiing. Ski patrols had been dispatched to the area to close it to the public due to extremely poor weather and avalanche conditions.
Tragic news reached rescue teams as they raced to the scene, where the skier was pronounced dead shortly after. The PGHM confirmed that his family had been notified, and so far, no additional casualties stemming from the incident have been reported. In light of this event, the Haute-Savoie prefecture has reiterated safety advisories for skiers and hikers, urging them to remain vigilant and heed guidance regarding the increased avalanche risk present in the region this January.
Initially, there was confusion surrounding the skier's nationality, with early reports suggesting he was British. However, local officials, including the Chamonix High Mountain Gendarmerie Platoon (PGHM), clarified the information a day later. The avalanche occurred in an off-piste area where the man, aged 55, had been skiing. Ski patrols had been dispatched to the area to close it to the public due to extremely poor weather and avalanche conditions.
Tragic news reached rescue teams as they raced to the scene, where the skier was pronounced dead shortly after. The PGHM confirmed that his family had been notified, and so far, no additional casualties stemming from the incident have been reported. In light of this event, the Haute-Savoie prefecture has reiterated safety advisories for skiers and hikers, urging them to remain vigilant and heed guidance regarding the increased avalanche risk present in the region this January.
