Four dead after avalanche in French valley
Four people have died and others are believed to be injured after an avalanche in a French valley.
A huge search and rescue operation was launched after snow cover slipped in the commune of Mont-Dore in central France on Sunday afternoon.
About 50 rescuers including specialised mountain police were involved, as well as dogs specially trained to find avalanche victims.
The mayor of Mont-Dore, Sebastien Dubourg, praised those involved in the rescue.
“The Val d’Enfer is heavy snow. It’s a funnel. The mountain is unfortunately stronger than us,” he was quoted by regional news outlet La Montagne as saying.
An investigation into what happened has been opened by the local public prosecutor’s office.
Joel Mathurin, prefect of the Puy-de-Dome region, sent his condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims. He also asked everyone to exercise the utmost caution in the area.