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Italy's Alpine rescuers urge caution after string of avalanche deaths
Published by Global Banking & Finance Review®
Posted on February 9, 2026
1 min readLast updated: February 9, 2026
Quick Summary
Italy's Alpine rescue service warns of avalanche risks after 11 deaths in a week. Skiers should exercise caution and check bulletins.
Alpine Rescuers in Italy Warn of Avalanche Risks Following Fatalities
Avalanche Risks in the Italian Alps
MILAN, Feb 9 (Reuters) - Italy's Alpine rescue service on Monday urged "maximum caution" after avalanches claimed 11 lives in seven days, as exceptionally unstable snow conditions threaten large parts of the Alps.
The latest victim was a 70-year-old hiker, who was found dead overnight in the Veneto region of the country, which is hosting the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics in the Alps from February 6-22.
Italy's rescue service said the risk of avalanches was present across most of the Alpine range from west to east.
Recent Avalanche Incidents
With fresh snow accumulating on older and unstable layers, even the movement of a single skier can trigger an avalanche, the rescue service said in a statement.
These conditions make it difficult even for expert off-piste skiers to identify safe routes, it warned.
Safety Recommendations for Skiers
The rescuers urged anyone heading into snowy terrain to study avalanche bulletins carefully, plan their routes conservatively and ensure they carry standard rescue equipment.
It also advised considering postponing outings until the snowpack had stabilised naturally.
(Reporting by Claudia Cristoferi, editing by Alvise Armellini and Anil D'Silva)
Key Takeaways
- •Italy's Alpine rescuers urge caution due to avalanche risks.
- •11 fatalities reported in the Alps over seven days.
- •Unstable snow conditions pose threats across the Alpine range.
- •Skiers advised to study avalanche bulletins and carry rescue gear.
- •Consider postponing outings until snowpack stabilizes.
Frequently Asked Questions about Italy's Alpine rescuers urge caution after string of avalanche deaths
1What is an avalanche?
An avalanche is a rapid flow of snow down a slope, often triggered by factors such as weather conditions, terrain, and human activity. Avalanches can be dangerous and cause fatalities.
2What is avalanche risk?
Avalanche risk refers to the likelihood of an avalanche occurring in a specific area, influenced by factors like snow conditions, weather, and terrain. It is crucial for outdoor enthusiasts to assess this risk.
3What is off-piste skiing?
Off-piste skiing refers to skiing on unmarked and unpatrolled areas outside of designated ski runs. This can be riskier due to potential hazards like avalanches.
