State Department warns Americans of ‘extremely dangerous’ avalanche conditions across Europe

The U.S. State Department issued a warning Friday about significantly increased avalanche danger in regions of Switzerland, Austria, and France. The alert urges Americans abroad to monitor local avalanche forecasts and exercise caution.

The warning follows recent avalanche fatalities across Europe this season. The department cited reports from authorities indicating high danger levels in various Alpine areas. The European Avalanche Warning Service is recommended for updated conditions, according to the alert.

An embassy in Austria noted that authorities report a Danger Level 4 — considered high — in parts of Tyrol and Vorarlberg, where avalanches can be triggered easily and large natural avalanches are expected. Other alpine regions are at Danger Level 3, classified as ‘considerable.’ The embassy warned that exposed transportation routes could be at risk and that conditions are extremely hazardous for snow sports outside marked trails.

Americans in these regions are advised to monitor avalanche forecasts, heed local authority guidance, avoid backcountry activities, and stay on designated trails. The U.S. embassy in Switzerland also reported increased danger, with some regions at Danger Level 4 in the Cantons of Valais and Graubünden, and other areas at Level 3. In France, alpine regions along the borders with Italy and Switzerland, including Hautes Alpes, Isere, Savoie, and Haute-Savoie, face strong to very strong avalanche risks.

The warning comes amid recent tragedies, including the death of eight skiers near Lake Tahoe in California and the ongoing search for another missing person, marking the deadliest avalanche in California history, according to authorities.

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