Andorra Records 23 Avalanche Fatalities Since 1964, Latest Two Added

Andorra has recorded 23 avalanche fatalities since 1964, with the two most recent deaths now added to the official tally, according to a new report from Andorra Recerca i Innovació.

The study, cited by RTVA, analyses 122 documented incidents in the country and highlights the growing role of mountain sports in these accidents. Off-piste mountain skiing tops the list with 56 cases, followed by 33 involving freeride skiing.

Experts point to a rise in such activities as a key driver behind the increased risk. Since 1993, most avalanches have occurred at danger levels 2 and 3, with level 3 often underestimated due to a false sense of security despite its high criticality.

This winter's conditions have intensified the threat, featuring frequent level 4 alerts triggered by heavy snowfall and buried weak layers that make large slides more likely. The report identifies wind slabs forming under fresh snow as the primary hazard, as they fail to bond with underlying layers.

Despite the dangers, researchers note a slight decline in fatalities, attributed to better rescue training, greater risk awareness, and widespread use of safety gear such as transceivers and probes.

The study stresses that while avalanches cannot be prevented, the most effective approach remains minimising exposure to hazardous areas.