Italy reports record wave of mountain deaths as avalanches strike

Italian authorities reported at least a dozen deaths this week tied to avalanches on ungroomed backcountry slopes, and said Olympic venues and managed ski areas remain monitored and are being kept safe.

Rescuers and officials in Italy reported an unusually high number of mountain deaths over the past week, with multiple fatalities tied to avalanches. Authorities said the incidents largely involved ungroomed backcountry slopes and occurred as the Winter Olympics began in the region. Mountain-rescue teams pointed to persistent weak layers of fresh snow as the main instability factor. Officials emphasized that Olympic sites and managed ski areas are being monitored and maintained. Known facts: - Authorities reported at least a dozen deaths over the past week; officials said 11 of 12 victims were killed in avalanches, while the Associated Press reported a total of 13 deaths. - Italy’s National Alpine and Speleological Rescue Corps reported persistent weak layers in fresh snow that can make detachments unpredictable and easily triggered on ungroomed backcountry slopes. - Officials and the Italian National Fire Brigade (Vigili del Fuoco) said Olympic venues and managed ski resorts are monitored and maintained, and that an enhanced rescue structure has been implemented for the Milan Cortina 2026 Games. Summary: The week’s fatalities represent an unusual cluster of mountain accidents tied to unstable snow conditions in Italy, and officials have highlighted the risk in backcountry areas. Undetermined at this time.