Overview
- Three separate avalanches struck on Jan. 17 at Bad Hofgastein, Finsterkopf in the Gastein/Grossarl area, and Pusterwald in Styria within a span of hours.
- One woman died near Bad Hofgastein, four off-piste skiers were killed near Finsterkopf, and three Czech ski tourers were found dead in Pusterwald.
- Rescue operations mobilized more than 200 personnel, multiple helicopters, search dogs and crisis teams, with some recoveries delayed by ongoing danger.
- Mountain rescue officials said there had been clear, repeated advisories after heavy snowfall created poorly bonded layers and wind-drifted slabs.
- Authorities confirm the toll and continue investigations, as forecasters warn the avalanche risk remains elevated across parts of the Alps.