On April 13, 2021, a tragic avalanche claimed the lives of six people, including experienced mountain guides, in the French Alps. The group was on a ski touring expedition in the area of Les Deux Alpes when the avalanche struck.
The group consisted of three clients and three mountain guides from the company “La Grave Guides.” The guides were experienced and well-respected in the mountaineering community. The clients were also experienced skiers and had been on previous ski touring trips with the company.
The avalanche occurred at around 2,800 meters (9,200 feet) above sea level. The group was skiing down a slope when the snow suddenly gave way, causing a massive slide. The avalanche was estimated to be around 400 meters (1,300 feet) wide and 600 meters (1,970 feet) long.
Despite the best efforts of rescue teams, all six people were found dead. The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the mountaineering community and has highlighted the dangers of skiing and mountaineering in the French Alps.
Avalanches are a common occurrence in the French Alps, especially during the winter months. They are caused by a combination of factors, including snowfall, wind, temperature changes, and the slope angle. Skiers and mountaineers must be aware of these factors and take precautions to avoid avalanches.
One of the most important precautions is to check the avalanche risk before heading out. The French authorities provide daily avalanche risk reports for different areas of the Alps. Skiers and mountaineers should always check these reports before heading out and adjust their plans accordingly.
Another important precaution is to carry the necessary equipment, such as an avalanche transceiver, shovel, and probe. These tools can help rescuers locate and dig out victims in the event of an avalanche.
It is also important to ski or climb with a guide who is experienced in the area and knows how to assess the avalanche risk. The guides from “La Grave Guides” were experienced and well-respected, but even they were unable to avoid the tragedy.
The tragic avalanche in the French Alps is a reminder of the dangers of skiing and mountaineering in the mountains. Skiers and mountaineers must be aware of the risks and take precautions to avoid them. Our thoughts are with the families and friends of those who lost their lives in this tragedy.
