Avalanche in Italian Alps Claims Two Lives, Rescue Efforts Ongoing
An avalanche in the South Tyrol region of Italy on Saturday, March 21, 2026, resulted in the deaths of two skiers and injuries to five others. The incident occurred in high alpine terrain near Ratschings, close to the Austrian border.
Details of the Avalanche
The avalanche struck at an altitude of approximately 2,400 meters (7,874 feet) on the slopes of Hohe Ferse (also known as Monte Tallone Grande), which reaches a height of 2,669 meters (8,757 feet). The emergency center received an alert around midday that a dozen skiers were caught in the avalanche CBS News. Approximately 25 skiers were present on the mountainside at the time, though many were able to avoid the full force of the slide CBS News.
Rescue Operation
A large-scale rescue operation was launched involving six helicopters and around 80 rescuers from the CNSAS (National Alpine and Speleological Rescue Corps), the Alpine Association, police, and firefighters AP News. Three individuals sustained serious injuries, and two suffered minor injuries. Nearby hospitals were notified to prepare for incoming patients CBS News.
Increased Avalanche Fatalities This Season
This winter season has seen an unusually high number of avalanche-related deaths across Europe. As of March 16, 2026, reported fatalities since October 1st reached 127, including 33 in Italy, 31 in France, and 29 in Austria AP News. Earlier in February, during the Winter Olympics, Italy experienced a particularly deadly week with 13 skier deaths, 10 of which were attributed to avalanches AP News.
Contributing Factors
Experts attribute the increased risk to an exceptionally unstable snowpack and a surge in skiers venturing onto off-piste slopes following recent heavy snowstorms AP News. Climate experts suggest that rising temperatures and stronger winds are also contributing to snow instability The Independent.
A few days prior to this incident, a Polish man was killed in an avalanche in the same region CBS News. The avalanche danger on Saturday was assessed as being between low and moderate.
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