Avalanche Danger: "In 90 Percent of Accidents, the Avalanche was Triggered by the Winter Sports Enthusiasts Themselves"
Avalanche risks are at a critical level in parts of Switzerland and western Tyrol, leading to several deaths and rescue operations among winter sports enthusiasts.
Current avalanche danger in many parts of Switzerland and western Tyrol is rated at level 4 on a five-part scale, raising significant concerns for winter sports participants. Avalanches have resulted in multiple fatalities, including the tragic deaths of two snowboarders in Tyrol and three French skiers in Italy. In Oberjoch, Allgรคu, a person buried under snow was rescued, while a regional train derailed in Switzerland after an avalanche, with about 30 individuals evacuated and five injured. The situation reflects the severe snow conditions facing the region this winter. The alarming data highlights that 14 individuals have already died in Austria due to avalanches this winter alone. According to Matthias Walcher from the Tyrolean Avalanche Service, the primary cause of these accidents is that in approximately 90 percent of cases, winter sports enthusiasts have inadvertently triggered the avalanches themselves. He emphasizes the importance of being aware of the risks and adhering to safety measures designed to mitigate the chances of an avalanche occurring. As more winter sports enthusiasts hit the slopes amidst the challenging conditions, the advice from experts is paramount. They urge skiers and snowboarders to stay informed about the avalanche conditions and adhere to safety recommendations, particularly during high-risk periods. The dangers posed by avalanches, exacerbated by the current snow situation, necessitate increased caution among winter sports enthusiasts to prevent further tragedies in the Alps.