A tragic avalanche struck near the La Norma Ski Resort on Saturday, December 28, 2023, claiming the life of a 44-year-old skier from Bourgneuf, Savoie.
The victim was part of a three-person group, which included her partner and a friend, all of whom were skiing off-piste in the Vallon du Saint-Antoine area. Their descent triggered the avalanche, resulting in significant and tragic consequences.
According to the PGHM Modane rescue team, the alarm was raised shortly after noon. "At 12:14 PM, we received an alert from the helicopter base of Modane informing us of an avalanche triggered on the off-piste area of La Norma (Saint-Antoine stream)," the rescuers reported. They had to respond quickly to the scene.
The avalanche measured 200 meters wide and rapidly engulfed the area. Although her partner and friend emerged unscathed, the woman was not as fortunate. Witnesses indicated she was buried under 120 centimeters of snow.
While the group attempted to navigate the perilous terrain, it became evident they were ill-equipped for the risks posed by skiing off-piste. Local authorities had been monitoring conditions closely, and the region was experiencing heightened avalanche risk levels double-checked just days before the accident. Reminders of safety and vigilance were emphasized as major snowfall had led to unstable snowpack conditions.
The response from emergency services was swift, with helicopter assistance arriving shortly after the distress call. Rescuers, including members of the PGHM and canine units, undertook a coordinated search. "They were right there; we are very close," commented Major Antoine Troussel, referring to the proximity of emergency help. By 1:07 PM, the woman was located, but, tragically, they were unable to revive her.
Medical personnel quickly performed resuscitation efforts, but it was to no avail. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene. She was reportedly the second avalanche victim within just one week, as another tragic incident took the life of a 14-year-old boy skiing at the Aiguille Rouge area of Arc 2000 just days earlier.
Rescue teams and authorities have reiterated the importance of safety protocols when skiing off-piste. "The snowpack is tricky and very dangerous; the risk of 3/5 is significant, and this is where accidents happen; one must absolutely be equipped with avalanche transceivers, shovels, and probes, and be accompanied by professionals when skiing off-piste," stated mountain professionals.
This statement highlights the dangers faced by thrill-seekers eager to traverse the beautiful, yet perilous terrains of the French Alps. Despite the joys of skiing, the risks are intensifying, and local authorities urge greater caution during the winter sports season.
With recent fatalities serving as sobering reminders, families and skiers alike are called to take extra precautions. Savoie has faced several avalanche incidents recently, with at least 14 deaths linked to avalanches across France just this year, as reported by the National Association for the Study of Snow and Avalanches (ANENA).
The local government has been proactive, issuing warnings and recommendations to keep the public aware of the ever-changing conditions on the slopes.
Ensuring proper equipment and considering professional guidance remain integral parts of safe skiing responsibilities.
Sports enthusiasts are encouraged to heed local advisories, especially during heavy snow periods. Authorities assert, "During the entire season and particularly after heavy snowfalls, winter sports practitioners must take necessary precautions and follow the advice provided by professionals."
This incident at La Norma reinforces the need for vigilance and preparedness as skiers navigate the beautiful but treacherous slopes of the area.
