Three Dutch Skiers Die in Austria Avalanche
11th April 2024
A fourth person is being treated in hospital. All were part of a group of ski tourers from Holland. UPDATED
The accident happened in the Otztal Valley in the Tirol above the ski resort of Soelden near to the Martin-Busch Hut at an altitude of 2,500m.
The avalanche was 180m long and 80m wide.
It followed recent heavy snow in the area and fluctuating temperatures.
The avalanche risk at the time was at Level 2 on a scale of 5, meaning there was ‘moderate’ risk.
The victims were in a 17-person ski touring group that was on an ascent with four mountain guides.
A major rescue operation was launched with helicopters taking searchers, medical staff and avalanche dogs to the scene.
The avalanche swept away four members of the group.
Two were pronounced dead at the scene.
Of the two others, one was flown to hospital by helicopter and the other remained on the mountain but later died from injuries sustained.
The Dutch embassy in Vienna says it is providing assistance as required and staff have gone to the area.
The route they were following to the Martin-Busch mountain hut, is considered a ‘classic’ but also with some danger due to the steep slopes.
We will bring you further news as we receive it.
