Avalanches Kill Eight Skiers as Heavy Snowfall Hits the Alps

A number of people have died in the Alps over the past week after heavy snowfall created dangerous conditions in the region. Authorities say severe weather has increased the risk of avalanches across several mountain areas.

In the Austrian Alps, at least eight skiers were killed after being caught in avalanches. The victims were skiing in high-risk zones when large snow masses suddenly collapsed, leaving little time to escape.

Rescue teams were quickly deployed, but bad weather and deep snow made rescue work very difficult. Officials said some areas were hard to reach due to blocked roads and poor visibility.

Authorities have warned locals and tourists to avoid off-piste skiing and follow safety guidelines. Weather experts say continued snowfall could keep avalanche risks high in the coming days.