Yesterday afternoon a dramatic rescue unfolded at the top of Grands Montets.
2 Alpinists Killed in Avalanche at Grands Montets
2 mountaineers sadly caught in an avalanche trying to climb the Petite Verte
Two mountaineers, who have been confirmed as being Lithuanian, were attempting to climb the Petite Verte, and were caught in a wind slab avalanche.
Rescue teams were quickly on scene and were seen giving CPR to one of the mountaineers, who later died as a result of his injuries. The other, a woman, died instantly from a fall.
The PGHM (high mountain rescue team) flew in by helicopter, and shortly after a second helicopter arrived. The team were working extremely close to the edge of a large crevasse, lots of which are visible at the moment in this off piste section.
The Interior Minister of France, Bernard Cazeneuve, has warned that "everyone [should] be cautious due to high avalanche risks that can affect all mountain ranges, including the Alps, in the coming hours. Following heavy rains, the degree of risk is currently estimated at 3 or 4 on a scale of 5". The Minister further requests "all residents and holidaymakers to strictly comply with safety regulations issued by the regional authorities".
Our thoughts are with the family & friends of those who lost their lives.
