Avalanche in South Tyrol Claims Lives and Traps Skiers

An avalanche in the South Tyrol region of Italy on Saturday, March 21, 2026, resulted in the deaths of two skiers and left approximately 25 others caught in the snow. A large-scale rescue operation is underway, with concerns rising over the unusually high number of avalanche fatalities this season.

Incident Details

The avalanche occurred at an altitude of around 2,400 meters (7,874 feet) on the slopes of Hohe Ferse (also known as Monte Tallone Grande), near the town of Ratschings, close to the border with Austria. The avalanche was reported at approximately 11:40 a.m. Local time (10:40 GMT).

Rescue Efforts

Rescue operations involved six helicopters and around 80 rescuers from the CNSAS rescue service, the Alpine Association, police, and firefighters. Hospitals in Merano, Bolzano, and Bressanone, including in Innsbruck, Austria, were put on alert to receive potential casualties.

Casualties and Injuries

As of March 21, 2026, two skiers have been confirmed dead. Three individuals sustained serious injuries, and two suffered minor injuries. Approximately ten skiers were swept away by the avalanche, and their status remains uncertain. Many of the skiers involved were equipped with avalanche transceivers (Artva) to aid in location and rescue.

Seasonal Avalanche Fatalities

This season has seen an unusually high number of avalanche-related deaths across Europe. As of March 16, 2026, a total of 127 deaths have been reported since the start of the season on October 1. Italy has recorded 34 fatalities, followed by France with 31, and Austria with 29.

Experts attribute the increased risk to an unstable snowpack and a surge in skiers venturing onto off-piste slopes following recent heavy snowstorms. Climate experts suggest that rising temperatures and stronger winds contribute to snow instability.