Buried by an avalanche

Hand sticking out of the snow: man freed himself

Symbolic image(Bild: APA/Barbara Gindl (Symbolbild))

A man was literally able to free himself from an avalanche on Christmas Day. After an avalanche on the Madlochjoch near Lech (Bludenz district) swept him around 500 meters and completely buried him at around 2.20 p.m., only the 40-year-old's left hand was still sticking up in the air. 

While his partner made an emergency call and began the search, the buried man was initially able to dig his face free on his own and then free himself completely.

Vorarlberger remained unharmed
The man was flown by emergency helicopter to Bludenz LKH for examination, but was released unharmed. The trained ski guide was the first to enter the slope while his partner waited.

Avalanche airbag did not deploy
After a loud settling noise, the entire area around the man began to move. He was initially able to stay on his skis, but then fell and was buried.

Both skiers were equipped with full emergency equipment, but the avalanche airbag on the victim was not triggered. In addition to Lech Mountain Rescue and two helicopters, two police and alpine patrols were also deployed.