Valais: the Nendaz avalanche killed a skier

On Wednesday, shortly before noon, a major avalanche was triggered outside the marked trails in the Tortin sector, at a place called “Louettes Econdouè”, in the town of Nendaz (VS). The large rescue commitment deployed made it possible to free a skier, who unfortunately died. The deceased is a 58-year-old Russian.

The research, which continued in the afternoon, made it possible to exclude the presence of other victims in this snowslide, wide of nearly 400 meters, informs the Valais cantonal police. Eight helicopters were engaged, and avalanche dogs were also mobilized. The Public Ministry opened an investigation.

On Monday, a 28-year-old Dutchman was taken to the same place. Although he was rescued, he died on the spot.

Marked Danger

The last few days have been deadly in the mountains. Two skiers lost their lives on Saturday at Scex Blanc, in the region of Bruson (VS), followed by a hiker who died on Sunday in Isenfluh, not far from Lauterbrunnen (BE). Several other skiers were temporarily buried the same day, but were able to be rescued. On Monday, the heir to the wealthy family that owned the Auchan and Decathlon stores lost his life in Savoie (F).

This weekend, the Valais Avalanche Accident Prevention Group called for caution, because heavy snowfall and a stormy wind caused significant snow piles. The risk was indicated as level 3 in a large part of Valais, a level often underestimated, warns the SLF institute.

(lvb/rmf)