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Avalanche strikes Val d'Isere, killing three skiers

Feb 14, 2026, 1:01 AM10
(Update: Feb 14, 2026, 1:01 AM)
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Avalanche strikes Val d'Isere, killing three skiers

  • An avalanche hit the Val d'Isere ski resort in the French Alps on February 13, 2026.
  • Three skiers were killed, including two British men skiing off-piste and one French skier skiing alone.
  • The incident highlights the dangers of skiing during high avalanche risk, prompting a review of safety measures.
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In the French Alps, an avalanche occurred at the Val d'Isere ski resort, resulting in the tragic deaths of three skiers. Two British men were among the victims, who were skiing off-piste, which was strongly discouraged due to high avalanche risks. The event took place around 11:30 am local time on February 13, 2026, as the area was experiencing a significant weather event with very heavy snowfall unprecedented for the season. The snowslide also swept away a French national who was skiing alone on the mountain slope, highlighting the dangers involved in skiing activities during such extreme weather. Authorities confirmed the casualties, detailing that the two British men were part of a group that included a professional instructor. They were skiing lower down the mountain when the avalanche struck, catching them off guard. Meanwhile, the French skier was situated higher up on the slope when he became a victim of the disaster. This emphasizes the unpredictability of avalanches and the importance of adhering to safety guidelines while skiing, especially in areas flagged with severe weather warnings. The situation escalated as local officials reported that France's national meteorological service, Meteo-France, had issued a red avalanche warning just a day prior to the incident, citing extremely hazardous conditions across the region. Skiers were advised to exercise extreme caution, particularly outside marked trails, as the risk of a snow slide was rated at level four out of five, indicating very high danger. In the span of just two days, the forecast predicted continued snowfall, adding to the precarious situation. An investigation into the cause of the avalanche is currently underway, yet the immediate focus remains on the victims and their families. The British Foreign Office has acknowledged the incident and is coordinating with local authorities to ensure that consular assistance is available to those affected. This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with winter sports and the necessity of strict adherence to safety measures in avalanche-prone regions.

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