Snowslide Near Gaustablikk, Norway: Ski Tracks Found in Avalanche Area

Gaustablikk, Norway – A snowslide occurred Saturday afternoon in the Toreskyrkja-Gaustablikk area of Telemark county, prompting a response from emergency services. Authorities are currently investigating whether anyone was caught in the avalanche, which measures approximately 20 meters wide and 30 meters long.

Ski Tracks Discovered

Police have reported finding ski tracks leading into the avalanche area, raising concerns about potential victims. “We have per now information about ski tracks into the avalanche,” stated operations manager Ottar Steinstø of the South-East Police District in a statement.

Rescue Efforts Underway

Three helicopters, along with ground crews and search dogs, have been dispatched to the scene. The first helicopter has begun an aerial search of the area. A police helicopter is en route to Hokksund to collect additional search dogs according to reports.

Ongoing Investigation

As of 6:02 PM local time, authorities have not confirmed whether anyone is missing or injured. Police are appealing to anyone who may have been in the area and has information about the avalanche to come forward as reported by NRK.

Popular Destination, Moderate Avalanche Risk

Gaustablikk is a popular destination for randonnée (ski touring) in the winter, situated at the foot of the Gaustatoppen mountain. The region had a moderate avalanche risk (level 2, yellow) on Saturday, with the risk expected to increase to a significant level (level 3, orange) on Sunday according to Varsom.no.

Second Avalanche Reported

At 5:00 PM, police received a report of another avalanche on Høgevarde in Flå municipality, Buskerud. The rescue helicopter initially dispatched to Gaustablikk was redirected to the new location. Police later determined the Høgevarde avalanche appeared to be traditional, indicating no one was likely caught in it.