2 skiers killed in avalanche in northern Italy; third in serious condition

Two French skiers have died after an avalanche swept them away near Courmayeur in northern Italy, according to local media reports. A third skier was rescued and remains in critical condition.

The avalanche struck the Vesses canal above Courmayeur, at the foot of the Mont Blanc massif in the Aosta Valley, local outlet Corriere Torino reported. The three men were skiing off-piste when they were caught in the slide.

Italy’s Aosta Valley Alpine Rescue service said three people were involved. One died at the scene, a second died later in the emergency room, and the third was transferred in serious condition to San Giovanni Bosco Hospital in Turin.

Corriere Torino reported that about 15 rescuers from Alpine Rescue and Italy’s Guardia di Finanza mountain unit responded, along with a doctor, three canine teams and two helicopters.

Courmayeur is a major alpine resort town on Italy’s northwest border with France and sits near the Mont Blanc tunnel linking the two countries.

While it is not a primary competition venue, it lies within the broader Alpine region hosting events for the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, which are currently underway across northern Italy.

Authorities have not released additional details about the victims beyond confirming they were French nationals.