Italian Mountains See Tragic Week as 13 Die, Avalanches Claim 10 Lives Amidst Unstable Snowpack
Thirteen individuals, including skiers, climbers, and hikers, have died in the Italian mountains over the past week, with 10 of these fatalities attributed to avalanches. These incidents occurred as Winter Olympic competitions commenced in the region, driven by an exceptionally unstable snowpack and increased activity on ungroomed slopes.
Rescue services have noted high-risk conditions across the Alpine crescent and advise caution for backcountry excursions.
Incident Overview
During a recent week, 13 backcountry enthusiasts died in the Italian mountains. Of these, 10 fatalities were caused by avalanches. The incidents were reported as Winter Olympic competitions were underway in the region, including Lombardy, Cortina d’Ampezzo, and Val di Fiemme.
A specific avalanche event occurred on Saturday at approximately 11:40 a.m. local time (1040 GMT) on the slopes of Hohe Ferse (Monte Tallone Grande) near Ratschings in South Tyrol, close to the Austrian border. This incident resulted in the deaths of two skiers. Twenty-five skiers were caught in the avalanche at an altitude of approximately 7,874 feet. In addition to the fatalities, three individuals sustained serious injuries, and two others received light injuries. A rescue operation was promptly initiated, involving six helicopters and approximately 80 rescuers from the CNSAS rescue service, the Alpine Association, police, and firefighters.
Other avalanche-related deaths over the weekend included two skiers in Lombardy, three in Trentino, and one in South Tyrol, with two of these occurring near the Marmolada glacier. Non-avalanche related deaths included two hikers on Monte Grappa in Veneto and in the Marche region along the Apennine range, and an ice climber in Valle d’Aosta.
Hazardous Conditions and Contributing Factors
Experts have identified an exceptionally unstable snowpack as a primary factor contributing to the avalanches. Recent snowstorms have led to high-risk conditions across the entire Alpine crescent bordering France, Switzerland, and Austria. The Alpine Rescue Corps noted that fresh snowfall and wind-swept snowcaps on weak internal layers have contributed to this instability. Federico Catania, spokesman for the Alpine Rescue Corps, explained that a single skier’s passage or natural overloading from snow weight could be sufficient to trigger an avalanche under these circumstances.
An increase in mountain visits during brief periods of good weather following recent snowstorms has also been noted as a contributing factor to the rise in accidents and fatalities. Climate experts have suggested a link between snow instability and rising temperatures and stronger winds.
Safety Information and Recommendations
The avalanche-related deaths occurred on ungroomed slopes, separate from the monitored Olympic competition sites. Managed ski resorts and Olympic venues are under constant supervision and were confirmed to pose no danger to skiers.
Rescuers advise individuals planning backcountry excursions to consult avalanche bulletins and consider postponing trips until the snowpack has stabilized.
Broader Context
This season has registered an elevated number of avalanche-related fatalities across Europe. As of March 16, a total of 127 deaths have been reported since October 1, surpassing the average of 100 fatalities per season, according to European Avalanche Warning Services. Italy has accounted for 33 of these deaths, France for 31, and Austria for 29.
Other Rescue Operations
Separately, the Alpine Rescue Corps also conducted the helicopter rescue of U.S. downhill skier Lindsey Vonn after she crashed during a competition in Cortina d’Ampezzo.