Could More Lives Be at Risk After Third Briton Dies in French Alps Avalanches?

A British national was among at least three people killed in two avalanches in the French Alps on Tuesday. The avalanches, which took place near La Grave and Valloire, highlight the dangers of skiing off-piste during periods of high avalanche risk, which has resulted in a total of 28 fatalities this winter season.

Last updated: 24 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The French Alps are currently experiencing heightened avalanche risks, particularly in areas like La Grave and Valloire, where a series of tragic incidents have occurred recently. On Tuesday, a group of five skiers, including a British national in his 30s and a Polish citizen, were skiing off-piste when an avalanche struck, resulting in their deaths. The risk levels today are marked as "high" in La Grave and at the maximum level of five in Valloire, according to the French weather service. Local authorities have initiated investigations into the causes of these avalanches, as the region grapples with an alarming rise in avalanche fatalities this winter.

Key takeaways

A British national was killed in an avalanche in La Grave, among at least three fatalities on Tuesday.
The French weather service has marked avalanche risks as "high" to "maximum" in affected areas.
This winter season has seen a total of 28 avalanche-related deaths in the French Alps.

Timeline: how we got here

The increase in avalanche fatalities in the French Alps this winter can be traced back to several key incidents:

January 2023: Six deaths were reported in one weekend due to avalanches.
Friday, 20 October 2023: Two British nationals and a French citizen lost their lives in avalanches.
Tuesday, 24 October 2023: A British national and a Polish citizen were killed in two separate avalanches, bringing the total death toll to 28 this season.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The latest avalanche incidents have resulted in three fatalities, including a British national and a Polish citizen. The French weather service has raised avalanche risk alerts, indicating a concerning trend in safety for skiers in the region.

What was already established

Fatal avalanches have become increasingly common this winter in the French Alps, with a total of 28 lives lost since the start of the season. Previous incidents have prompted warnings from local authorities about skiing off-piste during high-risk conditions.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The increasing number of avalanche fatalities may deter some UK citizens from skiing in the French Alps, particularly those considering off-piste skiing. This could affect travel plans and bookings for ski holidays in the region.

Businesses and jobs

Local businesses that depend on ski tourism may face challenges if UK visitors reduce their travel due to safety concerns. This could impact jobs in the hospitality and tourism sectors, particularly during peak winter months.

Policy and regulation

Following the recent fatalities, there may be pressure on local governments and ski resorts to enhance safety measures, including stricter regulations for off-piste skiing and improved avalanche monitoring systems.

Numbers that matter

28: Total avalanche-related fatalities in the French Alps this winter season.
4: Avalanche risk level in La Grave, rated as "high" on a five-point scale.
5: Maximum avalanche risk level recorded at Valloire.
3: Number of fatalities in Tuesday's avalanche incidents.
6: Deaths recorded in one weekend due to avalanches in January.

Definitions and jargon buster

Off-piste: Skiing outside of marked trails or ski runs, often in unpatrolled areas where avalanche risks may be higher.
Avalanche risk scale: A five-point scale used by meteorological services to assess the likelihood of avalanches occurring, with five being the highest risk.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the immediate future, skiers are advised to heed avalanche warnings and consider avoiding off-piste skiing until conditions improve. Ski resorts may implement stricter safety protocols.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As winter progresses, ongoing monitoring of avalanche conditions will be crucial. Skiers should stay informed through official channels regarding safety updates and possible regulations affecting skiing practices.

Signals to watch

Regular updates from the French weather service regarding avalanche risks.
Local authorities' responses and potential regulatory changes regarding skiing safety.
Changes in tourist booking trends for ski holidays in the French Alps.

Practical guidance

Do

Check avalanche risk levels before skiing.
Consider skiing with experienced guides if venturing off-piste.
Stay informed about local weather conditions and updates.

Don’t

Ignore avalanche warnings or risk levels.
Attempt to ski off-piste without proper knowledge and equipment.
Assume that past conditions will remain consistent.

Checklist

Review avalanche risk levels daily.
Ensure you have the necessary safety equipment, including avalanche transceivers.
Be aware of local emergency services and protocols in case of an avalanche.
Plan skiing routes in accordance with current conditions.
Communicate your plans with someone who is not skiing.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

The situation surrounding avalanche risks is dynamic and can change rapidly based on weather conditions and other environmental factors. It is essential to remain vigilant and heed warnings from local authorities. The ongoing investigations into the recent fatalities may also reveal more about the causes of these tragic events, which could influence future policies regarding skiing safety.

Bottom line

The recent avalanche incidents in the French Alps underline the significant risks associated with skiing, particularly off-piste. As the winter season progresses, it is crucial for skiers, especially those from the UK, to stay informed about avalanche risks, adhere to safety guidelines, and consider the implications of recent fatalities on their travel plans.

FAQs

What are the current avalanche risks in the French Alps?

The French weather service has categorised avalanche risks as "high" in La Grave and at the maximum level of five in Valloire, indicating significant danger for skiers.

How many people have died in avalanches this winter season?

So far, there have been a total of 28 avalanche-related fatalities in the French Alps this winter season, highlighting the dangers of skiing in these areas.

What should skiers do to ensure their safety?

Skiers should check avalanche risk levels regularly, avoid off-piste skiing during high-risk periods, and ski with experienced guides if venturing into unmarked areas.