Two skiers have lost their lives in an avalanche on Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in France. The tragedy also claimed the life of another hiker on a separate slope in the French Alps. According to local authorities, the avalanche occurred yesterday in an off-piste area of the ski resort Saint-Gervais-les-Bains, at an altitude of 7,545 feet. The Haute-Savoie region administration reported that several people were trapped in the snow, with six having been rescued, one with undisclosed injuries. Rescue teams also recovered the bodies of a man and a woman.
Jean-Marc Peillex, the Mayor of Saint-Gervais-les-Bains, spoke out about the terrible incident, stating, “It’s terrible what happened. A family is decimated, and we are very sad in Saint-Gervais.” The weather conditions at the time of the avalanche were reportedly unstable and unpredictable, including rain, snow, and warmer temperatures. Authorities are working to determine the cause of the tragedy.
Meanwhile, a separate incident involving a 31-year-old hiker occurred on the slope of the Ecrins mountain range, located just north of Mont Blanc. The hiker was with a friend and had veered away from normal hiking paths to observe mountain goats when both fell. Rescuers later discovered the hiker’s body.
The dangers of avalanches on Mont Blanc and other peaks in the French Alps are well-known. Earlier this year, a winter season on Mont Blanc was suspended due to several deadly avalanches that claimed the lives of several people.
Following these recent tragedies, authorities are reminding hikers and skiers of the importance of adhering to designated trails and exercising caution in unpredictable weather conditions.
The loss of life is a tragedy, and the local community is mourning the deaths of the skiers and hiker. Investigations into the accidents will provide insights into how future tragedies of this kind can be prevented.
great article
Insightful piece
Outstanding feature