Three people have died following a tragic avalanche at a well-known ski resort in France on Friday morning (February 13). The incident has shocked visitors and locals alike at one of the country’s most popular winter destinations.
The avalanche struck near the Val d’Isère resort at around 11:30 a.m. local time. Resort officials confirmed that two of the victims were tourists from the United Kingdom, while the third was a French national.
Local prosecutor Benoit Bachelet stated that another British tourist from the same group survived with minor injuries.
Reports indicate that the British victims were part of a five-person group skiing off-piste with a professional instructor when the avalanche occurred. The French victim was reportedly skiing alone in a nearby area.
Emergency responders arrived quickly, but despite rescue efforts, they were unable to save the three skiers. Authorities noted that the group was carrying standard avalanche safety equipment, including transceivers, shovels, and probes.
In a statement, the prosecutor explained that the instructor guiding the group was unharmed. Routine alcohol and drug tests conducted on the instructor were negative, according to media reports.
Rescue teams located two of the victims relatively quickly using their safety equipment signals. The third skier took longer to find. Officials believe her safety transceiver may have stopped functioning, and she was later discovered in a water area beneath the snow.
The exact cause of the avalanche has not yet been determined. An official investigation is now underway, including a manslaughter inquiry to fully understand the circumstances.
Val d’Isère resort representatives expressed sincere condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives.
Regional authorities have since urged visitors to avoid off-piste skiing, ski touring, and snowshoeing while avalanche risk remains high. Mountain safety officials are asking all visitors to strictly follow guidance from professionals and slope safety teams.
France’s national weather service had issued a red alert for avalanche danger in the surrounding area. Experts warned that snow conditions made avalanches easier to trigger and capable of moving large volumes of snow.
The tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of the risks that can exist in mountain environments, even for experienced and well-equipped skiers. Officials continue to monitor conditions closely as the investigation proceeds.
