A powerful avalanche swept down a mountainside at a ski resort in Val Veny in the Italian Alps, engulfing skiers near a chairlift and leaving two people dead and another seriously injured. The dramatic incident, captured on video, shows a fast-moving mass of snow descending toward the slope as several skiers initially stood watching before realizing the danger and attempting to flee. Within moments, a dense cloud of powder overtook the area, reducing visibility and forcing those in its path to scramble for safety.

Emergency officials confirmed that one victim died at the scene, while a second succumbed to injuries after being transported to a hospital. A third individual suffered serious injuries and was airlifted to Le Molinette Hospital in Turin for treatment. Rescue teams responded quickly, navigating hazardous conditions to search the slide area and assist those caught in the avalanche.

The incident comes amid a period of heightened avalanche risk across the European Alps, driven by recent heavy snowfall, strong winds, and unstable snowpack on high-altitude slopes. Italy’s Alpine Rescue Corps reported that dangerous backcountry conditions have contributed to a surge in fatal incidents, with a record 13 skiers, climbers, and hikers losing their lives in the Italian mountains during a single week ending February 8.

Authorities continue to warn that rapidly changing weather and wind-loaded slopes can create highly unstable conditions even in areas near resort infrastructure. The Val Veny avalanche underscores the importance of heeding safety advisories, as snowpack instability can trigger sudden slides capable of traveling at high speed and covering large distances in seconds.

Rescue operations and safety assessments remain ongoing as officials work to evaluate the stability of surrounding slopes and prevent further incidents. The tragedy highlights the persistent risks in alpine environments during periods of heavy snowfall and serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance among both recreational skiers and backcountry enthusiasts.