An avalanche struck five skiers in the northern Piedmont region on Sunday, killing three and injuring two, rescuers reported.
The avalanche occurred around midday on the eastern face of Punta Valgrande, a summit on the Italy-Switzerland border. The skiers who died were dragged several hundred metres downhill, suffering fatal injuries. Two survivors were airlifted to the hospital by helicopter.
Authorities had issued an alert in the area above 2,100 metres, warning of a “considerable danger of avalanches.” The Lepontine Alps region, where the avalanche struck, was classified as a third-degree avalanche risk zone, indicating high danger.
Reports suggest the group was ascending with crampons and descending on skis when they were struck. It is unclear whether the alarm was raised by a witness to the incident or by the two survivors.
Mountain rescuers noted that challenging weather conditions in the region contributed to the tragedy. Authorities are urging caution and advising against entering hazardous mountain areas.
