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8 Skiers Killed in 3 Avalanches Across Austria
Three avalanches on January 17, 2026, killed eight skiers in Austria despite avalanche warnings. One in Bad Hofgastein killed a female skier, one in Gastein Valley killed four, and one in Pusterwald killed three Czech skiers.[1][2][3]
Why It Matters
The incidents highlight severe avalanche risks from heavy snowfall, with authorities issuing clear warnings. They contribute to a pattern of deadly avalanches in Europe and the US in early 2026.[2][3]
Timeline
4 Events
Authorities comment on avalanche situation
January 17, 2026
Gerhard Kremser, Pongau mountain rescue head, stated the tragedy shows how serious the avalanche situation is despite clear and repeated warnings.[1][2][3]
Three Czech skiers killed in Pusterwald avalanche
January 17, 2026, shortly 4:30 p.m. local time
Three Czech skiers killed in an avalanche in Pusterwald, Murtal district, Styria, central Austria; four companions evacuated to safety.[2][3][4]
Four skiers killed in Gastein Valley avalanche
January 17, 2026, 2:00 p.m. local time
An avalanche in Gastein Valley, south of Salzburg, swept away seven people; four skiers killed, two seriously injured, one unharmed. Rescue teams including helicopters, mountain rescue, Red Cross dogs, and crisis intervention deployed.[1][2][3]
Female skier killed in Bad Hofgastein avalanche
January 17, 2026, 12:30 p.m. local time
A female skier died after being buried under an avalanche in the Bad Hofgastein area of Salzburg Pongau region, western Austria, at about 2,200 meters altitude.[1][2][3][4]