18th January 2026
It takes the death toll to thirteen in the Alps in the past week. The latest accident happened in the Valais canton in Switzerland. NEW
A group of four ski tourers were in the Pointe de Chemo area in the Valais municipality of Chamoson.
During the descent on the eastern flank, at an altitude of around 2,500m an avalanche broke loose and swept three of them away.
The avalanche danger was at Level 3 at the time, meaning there was a ‘considerable’ risk of avalanche.
After being alerted by the fourth tourer, the rescue teams from the Cantonal Valais Rescue Organisation (KWRO), supported by two helicopters from Air-Glaciers and an aircraft from Air Zermatt, were able to locate and rescue two buried people.
Despite the first aid provided, a 42-year-old man died at the scene of the accident.
A 41-year-old man was injured and flown by helicopter to the Inselspital Bern.
A 53-year-old woman, who was outside the snow mass, was also injured and transported by helicopter to Sion Hospital.
All three are Swiss nationals.
The public prosecutor’s office has opened an investigation.
The avalanche danger level remains ‘considerable’ (Level 3) on Sunday across large parts of the Swiss Alps.
Avalanche danger in Switzerland for Sunday 18th January. Image c/o Swiss Avalanche Institute.
The authorities are continuing to advise extreme caution of piste as the snowpack is highly unstable in places.
See here for PlanetSKI updates on the avalanche accidents since last weekend:
