Avalanche buries several skiers in Tignes, France
What's the story
According to local emergency services, several skiers were buried in the avalanche that hit the French resort of Tignes. The snow crossed popular Carline piste, a blue ski slope classified as 'easy' at around 10 am local time. A spokesman for the regional 'gendarmerie' (military police) said that lots of people are buried under the avalanche.
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About Tignes
Tignes is a commune in the Rhône-Alpes region in south-eastern France. Located in the Savoie region, it has good transport links in and out of Lyon, Geneva and Chambery. Tignes comprises of 5 villages, all of which are best known together as a ski resort. It was the freestyle skiing venue for the 1992 Winter Olympics and the co-host city for the 1992 Winter-Paralympics.
Efforts
What rescue measures are being undertaken?
According to reports, rescuers were unable to use helicopters due to poor visibility; they had to reach the location on foot. Four gendarmes from Bourg-Saint-Maurice, the high mountain unit, set out to the accident spot with a sniffer dog and a doctor. A local source said that ski run staff are "heavily involved" in trying to locate those under the snow.
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The timeline is brewing!
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.