Overview

• The bodies of five skiers were discovered on the Adler Glacier near the Rimpfischhorn, a challenging peak close to Zermatt, after climbers reported abandoned skis near the summit.
• The victims were located at varying altitudes on avalanche debris, with three found together and two others on a higher, narrower patch of snow, according to rescue service Air Zermatt.
• Separately, a 29-year-old alpinist was killed in an avalanche on the Morgenhorn in Bern canton; two others involved were rescued with minor injuries.
• Authorities have launched an investigation into the circumstances of the accidents and are working to formally identify the victims, whose nationalities remain undisclosed.
• The current winter season has seen 15 avalanche-related fatalities in Switzerland, highlighting the risks associated with backcountry skiing and mountaineering in the Alps.