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Alps Avalanche Season Claims 88 Lives Amid Climate Crisis

2/18/2026

30 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Avalanches in the European Alps have caused at least 88 fatalities this season.
A train derailed in Switzerland due to an avalanche, injuring five people.
Three skiers died in separate avalanches in France, including two Britons.
Heavy snowfall and unstable snowpack have raised avalanche risk levels with experts attributing it in part to weather disturbances and climate change.
Investigations into the causes of the incidents are ongoing.

History

Historical Context

The 1999 Galtür avalanche in Austria claimed 31 lives, underscoring the dangers of winter sports amid rising avalanche risks linked to climate change. Historical patterns show that severe avalanches, such as the Winter of Terror (1950-51), have repeatedly threatened the Alps. Today, experts warn that unstable snowpack and climate fluctuations continue to endanger winter sports enthusiasts, prompting calls for improved safety measures.

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Story summary

Avalanches in the European Alps have caused at least 88 fatalities this season.
A train derailed in Switzerland due to an avalanche, injuring five people.
Three skiers died in separate avalanches in France, including two Britons.
Heavy snowfall and unstable snowpack have raised avalanche risk levels with experts attributing it in part to weather disturbances and climate change.
Investigations into the causes of the incidents are ongoing.

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