Switzerland's iconic Alpine peaks were the scene of tragedy last weekend as six people lost their lives in two separate mountain accidents. Near Zermatt's Rimpfischhorn – a 4,199-meter summit popular with backcountry skiers – rescuers discovered the bodies of five climbers after abandoned skis were spotted near the summit.
A helicopter survey team located the group quickly, Swiss police said in a statement, adding that an investigation is underway to identify the victims and clarify what went wrong on the icy slopes near the Italian border.
Further north in the Bern canton, a 29-year-old alpinist was killed when an avalanche swept him away on the Morgenhorn. Two other climbers caught in the slide were rescued with light injuries and are now recovering in hospital.
Outdoor sports are woven into Switzerland's cultural fabric, drawing young travellers, digital nomads, and adventure-seekers from around the world. Yet the country's rugged terrain carries inherent dangers: so far this winter – running from October 1, 2024, to May 17, 2025 – the Institute for the Study of Snow and Avalanches has recorded 15 avalanche deaths across the Swiss Alps.
These incidents echo a grim reminder: even seasoned climbers face unpredictable conditions. In March, six backcountry skiers – five of them from the same family – perished near Zermatt after being caught in a violent storm. As mountain tourism rebounds, experts urge all visitors to monitor weather forecasts, equip themselves properly, and heed local safety advisories.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
