A French skier died on Saturday May 9 after an avalanche swept off the north face of the Aiguille du Plan in the Mont Blanc massif near Chamonix. Two other skiers were rescued and taken to hospital in Sallanches.
The accident happened around 12:30 pm as three French skiers between the ages of 20 and 25 were descending the steep north face of the Aiguille du Plan, the highest summit in the Chamonix Aiguilles range. According to the Chamonix High Mountain Gendarmerie Unit, the group triggered a fresh snow avalanche. One of the skiers was carried away by the snow slide and was later found dead at the bottom of the face.
The two remaining skiers became stranded part way down the descent and were unable to continue safely. Rescue teams supported by the Choucas 74 helicopter evacuated both survivors to the Sallanches Hospital Center.
Authorities confirmed that all three skiers were equipped with avalanche transceivers at the time of the incident.This is the second fatal incident following the fresh snow last week. With more snowfall expected over the coming days authorities have warned ski tourers and mountaineers to be on their guard.
Recent snowfall at high altitude had increased avalanche danger across the Mont Blanc massif. The avalanche bulletin issued on Friday May 8 reported a limited avalanche risk above 2800 meters and a low risk below that elevation.
Forecasters warned of wet snow avalanches caused by warming temperatures and solar radiation, especially on sun exposed slopes. The bulletin also mentioned the possibility of isolated wind slabs in high mountain terrain above 2800 meters on northern slopes.
Snow coverage in the region remains below seasonal averages under 3000 meters but is considered normal at higher elevations.