Updated 8.59pm
AN IRISH SKIER was killed in an avalanche in the Swiss Alps yesterday evening.
The cross-country skier, who is believed to be in his early 30s, was reported missing at about 9.20pm local time in the Rotondo area, according to police in the Uri province.
Because of inclement weather and snow conditions, neither a helicopter or a search and rescue team could be deployed immediately.
Following an avalanche, his body was found by the Alpine Rescue Switzerland team not far from the town of Realp in central Switzerland.
Swiss officials said the man lived near Zurich. The Department of Foreign Affairs is providing consular assistance to the family.
At least three other skiers have died in the past 48 hours as avalanches hit the French and Swiss Alps.
Additional reporting by AFP; first published 6.25pm
This report has been updated to adjust the deceased’s age. The initial police report described him as 27 years old but thejournal.ie has not been able to verify his exact age.
To embed this post, copy the code below on your site
have your say