Western Austria is facing a dramatically heightened avalanche risk, with 24 fatalities recorded this winter season as of Monday, February 24, 2026. The period between February 15 and 22 was particularly deadly, accounting for twelve of those deaths. The surge in fatalities comes amid heavy snowfall across the region, prompting urgent warnings for skiers and mountaineers. This season’s death toll is already three times higher than the total number of avalanche deaths recorded during the entire 2025-2026 winter season, when eight people lost their lives.
The recent heavy snowfall has significantly increased the danger, especially in western Austria, leading to numerous avalanches and accidents. Susanna Mitterer of the Austrian Board for Alpine Safety (ÖKAS) told the Austria Press Agency (APA) that the period from February 15 to 22 was especially dangerous, with twelve people killed in avalanches. Of those twelve, eleven were skiing or snowboarding off-piste – in areas not covered by avalanche control measures – and one was a ski tourer. Ten of the victims were tourists, while two were Austrian citizens.
Experts are describing this period as “Lawinenzeit,” a term coined by Klaus Hoi, the long-time training director of the Austrian Mountain and Ski Guides. “Lawinenzeit” refers to a short, critical phase in winter characterized by extremely high avalanche risk and a corresponding increase in accidents. This dangerous period is often triggered by a combination of new snow, wind, and an unstable snowpack structure, conditions that are currently present across much of the Austrian Alps. Mitterer noted that a similar period between February 3 and 6, 2023, saw 64 avalanche reports and eight fatalities, highlighting the potential for rapid escalation during these times.
The Austrian Kuratorium für Alpine Sicherheit (ÖKAS) emphasizes that only open, marked ski slopes are secured against avalanches. Any terrain outside of these designated areas is considered unsecured and carries a significantly higher risk. This includes closed slopes, which are not regularly patrolled or controlled. Mitterer stressed that many people are unaware of this distinction, leading to dangerous decisions.
Currently, the avalanche danger in Tyrol and Vorarlberg remains high, with a level four warning – on a scale of five – in effect in many areas above the tree line as of Tuesday, February 25, 2026. Nine of the twelve recent fatalities occurred in Tyrol, with two in Vorarlberg.
The stark increase in avalanche deaths this season underscores the importance of caution and preparedness for anyone venturing into the mountains. Avoiding “Lawinenzeit” periods, when possible, is a key strategy for minimizing risk, according to ÖKAS. Thirteen of the 24 fatalities this season involved individuals skiing or snowboarding off-piste, while ten died while ski touring and one was hiking. Fourteen of the victims were from outside of Austria, and ten were Austrian citizens. Twelve deaths occurred in Tyrol, six in Salzburg, four in Styria, and two in Vorarlberg. Over the past ten years, the average number of avalanche fatalities for an entire winter season has been 16.
Authorities continue to urge skiers, snowboarders, and mountaineers to check the latest avalanche forecasts, heed warning signs, and carry appropriate safety equipment, including avalanche transceivers, shovels, and probes. The ÖKAS website provides detailed information on current avalanche conditions and safety recommendations. More information on the current situation can be found here.
Officials are expected to provide an updated assessment of the avalanche situation in western Austria later this week. The ÖKAS will continue to monitor conditions and issue warnings as necessary. Readers are encouraged to share this information with anyone planning winter activities in the Alps and to prioritize safety when enjoying the mountains.
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