UPDATE: Four climbers have been tragically found dead following a devastating avalanche on Christmas Day in the Vardousia Mountains of central Greece. Local reports confirm that the bodies of three men and one woman were discovered buried in snow near the 6,500ft summit of Korakas.
The victims have been identified as experienced climber Thanasis Koloutouros, teacher Theodora Kaplani, and their friends Konstantinos Patikas and Giorgos Domalis. They set out for a festive hike from the village of Athanasios Diakos early on December 25, with clear weather initially reported. However, conditions deteriorated rapidly, leading to the fatal avalanche.
Authorities report that the climbers were likely caught off guard by the avalanche’s sudden onset, as they were found embracing each other in a tragic final moment. A friend raised the alarm when the group failed to return from their hike, prompting a search operation by the Hellenic Fire Service.
Vasilis Vathrakogiannis, spokesperson for the Fire Service, stated, “Weather conditions were extremely difficult, with low temperatures and poor visibility.” Search teams faced significant challenges due to adverse conditions, including snowfall and limited visibility. Drones and helicopters struggled to operate, complicating rescue efforts.
While one body was successfully airlifted, recovery efforts for the remaining bodies continued, with the Hellenic Rescue Team coordinating ground searches. Haris Asariotakis, head of the rescue operation, noted the treacherous location, approximately three hours from their departure point, at an altitude of 2,000m.
The tragedy reflects a growing concern over climbing safety amid unpredictable winter weather, echoing similar incidents across Europe. Just last month, a major avalanche occurred in Austria, prompting warnings for climbers in snowy regions.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities urge climbers to exercise extreme caution and stay informed about weather conditions before embarking on such treks. The emotional toll of this incident weighs heavily on the community, as locals mourn the loss of four promising lives cut short by nature’s fury.
Developments will be closely monitored as recovery efforts continue and further details emerge.
