Listen to this article Four Hikers Killed And Several Injured In Avalanche In The French Alps
Introduction
Four hikers were killed and several others were injured on Sunday in the French Alps when an avalanche swept down the Armancette glacier near Mont Blanc. French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin confirmed the casualties and announced that a search and rescue operation was underway.
Around midday local time, the incident occurred, and authorities believe that the victims were among a group of hikers who were exploring the glacier. Earlier on the same day, the nearby ski resort of Contamines-Montjoie posted a video on social media, showing a huge wall of snow moving down from the Dômes de Miage, which is connected to the glacier. The resort had urged people to be careful if they ventured off-piste, away from the prepared ski runs.
Efforts to rescue the injured and search for other possible victims
In response to the avalanche, rescue teams quickly mobilized to assist those affected by the disaster. Mr. Darmanin stated that several other people were receiving medical treatment for their injuries. A search and rescue operation was underway, with teams combing the area to locate any other possible victims of the avalanche. The French authorities have been working around the clock to coordinate rescue efforts and provide support to the victims and their families.
Haute-Savoie prefecture officials warn of further avalanches
Officials from the Haute-Savoie prefecture, which is the region where the avalanche occurred, issued a warning that they could not rule out the possibility of another avalanche. In a statement to AFP news agency, the officials cautioned people to be vigilant and avoid the area until the risk subsides.
Condolences from French President and Interior Minister
Following the tragic incident, both French President Emmanuel Macron and Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin expressed their condolences to the victims and their loved ones. The president tweeted, “The nation bows its head to the four French victims of the avalanche in the Savoyard Alps. Our thoughts are with their families and their loved ones.” Mr. Darmanin also expressed his sympathy and thanked the rescue teams for their efforts.
Previous fatal avalanche on the same glacier
This is not the first deadly avalanche to occur on the Armancette glacier. In 2014, two experienced mountaineer brothers lost their lives in an avalanche on the same glacier. Despite being well-prepared for their expedition and having proper equipment, the brothers were among the victims. Their tragic deaths serve as a reminder of the inherent risks of mountaineering and outdoor exploration.
Conclusion
The recent avalanche in the French Alps has claimed the lives of at least four hikers and left several others injured. The disaster has highlighted the dangers of exploring off-piste in the region’s mountainous terrain. The French authorities have mobilized rescue teams and are urging people to be cautious and avoid the area until the risk of further avalanches subsides. Our thoughts go out to the victims and their families, and we honor the bravery of the rescue teams working to save lives in the aftermath of this tragic event.
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