Massive Inbounds Avalanche in Switzerland Buries Four, Kills Ski Patroller

A massive and rare inbounds avalanche was triggered on Tuesday at the Crans-Montana resort in Switzerland. The crown of the avalanche was 330 feet wide and traveled over 2700 feet before slamming onto the groomed trail below. The debris, which covered about 1,300 feet of trail, buried four individuals.

According to the BBC, Europeans are stunned. Avalanche risk for the region was at two out of five and this alpine village was extensively risk mapped. Theoretically, the odds of this happening were very low.

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Rescuers quickly acted on the scene and were able to recover four victims from the snow, however, one ultimately died from his injuries. The fatality was a 34-year-old French ski patroller, who passed away during the night at the Sion hospital.

The search went into the night and pulled in the use of eight helicopters, 12 dogs, and over 240 police officers to ensure no other victims were buried. Since no disappearances have been reported, the search has been called off.

Now authorities are investigating the cause of the slide. Currently, hypotheses include two possibilities. There’s a chance this was set off by skiers, but with warming temps in the region, it’s also likely linked to changes in the region’s climate.

Read more about avalanche safety and backcountry travel in TGR's Safety Week content.