German climber killed in avalanche on fixed cable route

A 19-year-old German climber lost his life after being swept away by a snow slab while ascending a fixed cable route in southern Austria, according to Tyrol police on Saturday. The avalanche dragged him down steep, rocky terrain, and rescue teams were unable to reach him in time.

The victim was not attached to the safety cable at the moment the snow hit him. His 21-year-old climbing partner, who was secured with a carabiner to the cable, survived the incident.

Authorities had issued a Level 2 avalanche warning, indicating moderate danger, across many parts of Tyrol. This level suggests that weak layers within the existing snow could be triggered by climbers.

Author: Riley Thompson