Updated on Friday, 17th July 2015
Early morning mission for the PGHM. The Chamonix rescuers were urgently called, after two climbers were involved in a rock fall tragedy at about 3300m altitude on the Gouter Couloir (Mont-Blanc massif).
The accident occurred in early morning, just before 5am at 3300m altitude on Couloir du Gouter. The victims, a 59-years-old man and his climbing partner, left Col de Voza (1653 m) on Wednesday night heading towards the Refuge du Goûter (3835m altitude).
Because of high temperatures in mountains (0°C at 4800m altitude), the two climbers had to face a real danger in the "couloir of death". The two men attempted traverse the couloir which is subject to an almost constant rockfall in high temperatures. A rock claimed the life of one climber, while the second traversed successfully, took shelter on the right bank of couloir and immediately called for help.
Also on Thursday, on the Brèvent route (Aiguilles Rouges massif), a Swedish climber, 57 fell and was seriously injured. The PGHM responded quickly and patient was airlifted to the hospital in Sallanches. Unfortunately, he was pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital.
With rising temperatures expected this week, the PGHM is advising extreme caution for those going into the high mountains. In this period of 'good' weather, the mountains are particularly dangerous.
To avoid accidents, the Companie des Guides - Saint Gervais has suspended the ascent of Mont Blanc via the Gouter Route.
Climbers are strongly advised to consult a High Mountain Guide or the Office du Haut-Montagne before attempting to climb in the Massif du Mont-Blanc.
