TL;DR
A tragic avalanche incident on the Alphubel peak in Switzerland's Valais region has resulted in the deaths of two backcountry skiers, highlighting the persistent dangers in high-altitude terrain.
Avalanche Claims Lives of Two Backcountry Skiers in Swiss Alps
On Saturday, May 17, a devastating avalanche near Saas-Fee, Switzerland, resulted in the deaths of two backcountry skiers. The incident occurred on the Alphubel, a 4,206-metre peak in the Valais canton, as the skiers were ascending the mountain. This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with high-altitude skiing, even for experienced mountaineers.
The avalanche struck at an elevation of about 4,165 metres in an area known as the 'ice nose' above the Täschhütte, a common starting point for ski tours in the region. The skiers had set out early that morning, intending to summit the Alphubel, which is part of the Mischabel range between Täsch and Saas-Fee. Despite the swift response from Air Zermatt rescue teams, avalanche dog handlers, and specialists from the Cantonal Valais Rescue Organisation, both individuals were found deceased when rescuers reached the site.
The Alphubel is a popular destination for spring backcountry skiing, known for its accessible glacier routes and alpine views. However, the combination of warming temperatures and deep snowpack in spring can create hazardous conditions in high-altitude terrain. While the ascent from Täsch is considered technically straightforward, the route is long and the mountain's flanks are known for their hidden crevasses.
