An Italian skier, who was riding on the Furgg glacier in Zermatt (VS) on Sunday, fell into a glacial torrent. The snowpack gave way under his feet and the unfortunate man found himself trapped in the waters. Due to the current and the steepness of the creek bed, the victim was carried several meters below the snow-covered and covered surface. Fortunately, the athlete was not alone. His hiking partner was able to give the alert. Emergency services rushed to the scene quickly. It is Air Zermatt, which intervened on the spot, which recounts this perilous rescue.
The high mountain experts had to assess an unclear situation when they arrived on the ground, surrounded by a series of rescuers and even flight assistants from the Valais helicopter company. An avalanche dog and a diver were also hired. The skier was located following an hour thanks to a probe. It was 10 m below the breaking point. The immediate unavailability of the diver prompted those responsible for this delicate operation to send one of the rescuers. The latter was roped. He descended in the dark and was able to reach and secure the unfortunate in a lethargic state.
Unconscious, the victim was brought to the surface. A real miracle that the man is still alive. For two hours, he remained in the water and was found in a state of advanced hypothermia. Her body temperature dropped to 26 degrees. The Italian was airlifted to the Island Hospital in Bern. Air Zermatt confirms that he was able to recover and is doing well. The accident occurred in an off-piste area near the ice cave, a popular spot for skiers.