What started as a crisp winter morning on the Stubai Glacier quickly transformed into a desperate search-and-rescue mission.
Austria’s largest glacial ski resort was thrown into chaos after a massive avalanche tore through an off-piste area, sweeping several skiers into its path.
How the Avalanche Struck
Officials say the snowslide hit around 9:30am, right near the Daunscharte pass—well outside the groomed pistes and popular with adventurous skiers.
A dramatic video captured the moment dozens of people tried to race downhill as the churning wall of snow chased them.
Police believe the avalanche was triggered by skiers moving through the steep, open terrain.
Immediate Impact on the Resort
Although the main slopes weren’t in direct danger, a lower stretch of piste 9 still got hit by the tail end of the avalanche. Staff shut it down instantly.
The resort later confirmed that some of those caught up in the slide managed to deploy avalanche airbags, which may have helped save their lives.
First Rescues and Medical Response
Local media is reporting that nine people who were partially buried have already been pulled out.
Three were rushed to hospital by helicopter, though doctors haven’t yet detailed how badly they were hurt.
At least two medical helicopters and a police chopper have been circling the area, supporting rescue teams and allowing authorities to assess what happened.
Hundreds Join the Search
The rescue effort escalated fast. Around 250 people—mountain rescuers, firefighters, police, volunteers, and specialist teams—fanned out across the glacier.
Search dogs from nearby mountain towns like Neustift im Stubai and Sölden were brought in, and even soldiers from Germany and mountain crews from Poland are helping sift through layers of snow.
Weather Conditions Behind the Disaster
The region had been blanketed with heavy snow in recent days.
Strong winds piled up drifts more than two feet deep—exactly the kind of conditions that can hide unstable layers beneath fresh powder.
Ironically, the avalanche struck just one day before the local avalanche warning system was due to return to full operation for the season.
Austria’s Largest Glacial Resort
Stubai Glacier is one of the country’s crown jewels, sitting almost 10,500 feet above sea level and only about 50 minutes from Innsbruck.
The resort had only recently reopened for the 2025/26 season after months of preparation.
Earlier Safety Concerns This Month
This isn’t the first serious incident at the resort this month.
A 20-year-old Belgian skier suffered life-threatening injuries a few weeks ago after veering off the No.7 Daunferner slope and slamming into rocks hidden beneath the snow.
He wasn’t wearing a helmet, and another skier happened to spot him and call for help.
He was flown to Innsbruck University Hospital with severe head and body injuries.
Situation Still Developing
Authorities haven’t confirmed how many people might still be missing.
The search continues as daylight and weather allow.
More details are expected as rescuers work through the debris field.
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