Five Climbers Die In Avalanche–Update

I put up a post a few moments ago about five French climbers who have been killed following an avalanche. I am getting a few more facts now.

The guide, who was the only member to survive, is currently listed in critical condition, but stable. He has suffered abdominal and chest trauma and is currently conscious, but unable to speak.

Those killed in this terrible accident included four males and one female. As is the case with most situations like this, names have not been released until all family’s are notified.

The Avalanche occured near 8,000 feet of elevation. The climbers were dragged some 500 odd feet to the bottom of a gorge in the area. The climbers had been climbing and skiing in the vincinity of Gran Paradiso National Park near Turin, Italy.

The avalanche originated from a nearby peak after fresh snow had just fallen in the area. Punta Basei, a nearby 10,000 foot peak is said to be the original source of the avalanche.

All victims have been retrieved by helicopter. Their identities are waiting to be verified.

Source: USA Today