At least 2 dead in Austria avalanche, rescue operation underway

Two other people buried in the snow have been rescued.

April 11, 2024, 11:23 AM

LONDON -- At least two people were killed and two others were missing after being buried in a large avalanche at a ski resort in Austria on Thursday, authorities said.

Emergency officials in Tyrol in Vent, Austria, reported that at least four people were buried in the avalanche. However, according to initial police estimates, 18 people have been affected, though these numbers have not been confirmed by local authorities.

A massive search-and-rescue operation was immediately launched at a ski resort near the town of Soelden in the Austrian Alps, officials said.

PHOTO: Rescue teams and helicopters are on standby for a rescue operation following an avalanche in the Oetztal valley April 11, 2024 near Vent, Austria.
Rescue teams and helicopters are on standby for a rescue operation following an avalanche in the Oetztal valley April 11, 2024 near Vent, Austria.
Jan Hetfleisch/Getty Images

At least two people were found dead, officials said. At least two others were unaccounted for, according to authorities.

PHOTO: Rescue workers end their rescue operation following an avalanche in the Oetztal valley April 11, 2024 near Vent, Austria.
Rescue workers end their rescue operation following an avalanche in the Oetztal valley April 11, 2024 near Vent, Austria.
Jan Hetfleisch/Getty Images

The victims were apparently part of a ski touring group from the Netherlands that was skiing towards a mountain refuge with four Austrian guides, Reuters reported, citing a statement from the Tirol state police.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.

Related Topics