February 15, 2025 – Bonneval-sur-Arc, France – A tragic avalanche struck near the Col de l’Iseran on Saturday, resulting in the deaths of two ski tourers. The incident occurred at approximately 2:00 p.m., prompting an immediate response from the Val d’Isère ski patrol, the Alpine CRS (Compagnie Républicaine de Sécurité) from Modane and Courchevel.
The victims were part of a group of five ski tourers heading towards the Col des Fours (2976m) when they were caught in the slide beneath the Notre-Dame-de-Toute-Prudence chapel. A south-east facing slope at around 2650 meters altitude. The three survivors, in a state of shock, were transported to the Val d’Isère medical center for evaluation and treatment.
Avalanche Risk and Weather Conditions
According to the avalanche bulletin issued prior to the incident, the risk level was rated at 3 out of 5 (considerable risk) above 2000 meters. The bulletin noted ongoing stabilization in the recent snowpack but highlighted persistent dangers, especially in wind-affected areas:
"Recent snowfall, combined with strong winds, has created wind slabs that are still locally reactive. Although stabilization is in progress, skier-triggered avalanches remain possible, particularly on steep slopes exposed to wind accumulation."
Additionally, the report warned of lingering weak layers and possible slab fractures up to 30-40 cm deep, particularly in east and south-facing slopes, as well as certain wind-affected northern and western aspects.
Avalanche the Day Before in the Same Sector
The day before, a skier miraculously survived an avalanche in an off-piste area near the Pont de la Neige above Bonneval-sur-Arc. The 30-year-old man was buried under 150cm of snow for over an hour before being rescued by the CRS Alpes team from Modane. His survival was attributed to an air pocket and the swift response of rescuers, who located him using his avalanche transceiver (DVA).
The dramatic rescue underscored the ongoing instability in the region. Authorities noted significant wind-transported snow had created deep accumulations, contributing to the high avalanche risk. The Friday avalanche risk was also rated 3 out of 5, emphasizing the hazardous conditions.
A Call for Caution
With two fatalities in Bonneval-sur-Arc and a near-tragic avalanche the day before, mountain authorities are urging extreme caution for ski tourers and off-piste skiers.
Rescue teams remind all mountain-goers to check avalanche forecasts, carry appropriate safety equipment, including DVA (avalanche transceiver), probe, and shovel, and adopt a conservative approach when choosing their routes.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by backcountry skiing in winter conditions, particularly in wind-affected areas where hidden instabilities persist despite apparent snowpack stabilization.