British Tourist Dies in French Avalanche at Val Thorens

A 27-year-old British holidaymaker died after being caught in an avalanche in France, resulting in cardiac arrest. The incident occurred at the Val Thorens ski resort around 10 am on Thursday of the previous week. According to local prosecutor Benoît Bachelet, the man was resting by the roadside when the avalanche struck, carrying him approximately 15 meters.

An eyewitness alerted authorities to the event. Rescuers arrived promptly, extracting the British man from the snow and providing initial emergency care as he experienced heart failure. Difficult weather conditions hindered an immediate air evacuation, delaying his transfer to a hospital in Grenoble. The fire brigade ultimately transported him while he was in cardiac arrest.

Sadly, the tourist succumbed to his injuries later that evening, as confirmed by Mr. Bachelet. The regional prosecutor's office has initiated an investigation into the incident. The Albertville prosecutor's office released a statement detailing the event, stating that the avalanche occurred shortly after 10 am on April 17, 2025, at the entrance to Val Thorens. The British man, who was situated at the roadside, was buried and swept approximately fifteen meters.

Ludovic Trautmann, director of the Savoie prefecture, reported that the fatal landslide was one of four reported in Les Menuires and Val Thorens, with two reaching the town center. He emphasized the need for extreme caution, given the prevailing conditions. The Savoie region continues to experience heavy snowfall, prompting Meteo France to issue an orange alert due to a significant avalanche risk. The agency warned of the potential for spontaneous avalanches that could impact roads and buildings. Other resorts, including Tignes and Val Thoren, have also implemented safety measures. Holidaymakers in the area have been advised to remain in their accommodations due to the ongoing high risk.