Three Dutch skiers have died and another was hospitalized following an avalanche near the resort of Sölden in the Austrian Alps. The incident occurred as the group, consisting of 17 Dutch skiers and four Austrian guides, was en route to the Martin-Busch Hut at an altitude of 2,500 meters above sea level. The avalanche, extending approximately 80 meters wide, struck the group near the village of Vent in the Tyrol province, close to the Italian border.

At the scene, two skiers were found dead, and a third was flown to a hospital but later succumbed to their injuries. Emergency services, including helicopters, rescue dogs, and Alpine police were deployed for search and rescue operations, considering the “moderate” avalanche risk level reported in the region. The affected area was noted for its heightened risk of further avalanches, particularly under current conditions that favor such events.

The Dutch foreign ministry is investigating the incident and has the embassy in Vienna prepared to assist as required. This avalanche event follows recent similar incidents across European ski resorts, accentuating ongoing concerns about avalanche dangers, particularly amidst changing climatic conditions that increase the risk of such natural disasters.