Snow chaos and avalanches cost five lives in Austria
Five people lost their lives in Austria due to a major snowstorm that caused avalanches and other accidents.
On Friday, Austria was hit by a significant snowstorm, resulting in five fatalities, four of which were due to avalanches in the Tyrol region. This winter alone, avalanche incidents have claimed the lives of 21 individuals in Austria, known for its popular ski destinations. The authorities have alerted citizens of an increased risk of avalanches in the coming days, highlighting the deadly nature of these winter conditions.
The avalanche incidents reported include three victims caught in an avalanche near the St. Anton ski area, as confirmed by local authorities. Additionally, a German citizen was buried by snow in the Nauders area, resulting in his death, while his 16-year-old son sustained serious injuries. These incidents underscore the dangers of skiing and snowboarding in high-risk areas during severe weather conditions.
In addition to the avalanches, the snowstorm also led to various disruptions across Austria, including power outages and transport chaos. In Linz, a 53-year-old man tragically died after being crushed by a snow plow that fell down stairs in a residential complex. The extreme weather has prompted the government to remind residents of winter safety protocols and the need for vigilance in such hazardous conditions.