Three mountaineers die in Tyrol: Field risk alarmed experts!

Three mountaineers die in Tyrol: Field risk alarmed experts!

Tirol, Österreich - In Tyrol, a tragic incident recently occurred, which clearly illustrates the dangers of mountaineering and threats by storms. Three climbers lost their lives through a lightning strike. According to Gregor Franke, the head of the Tyrolean mountain rescue work, such accidents are extremely rare. In the past 20 years, there have never been more than three deaths per year in the Alps in the Alps, although there were also years without fatal incidents. Deadly lightning strikes usually affect hikers, mountaineers and hunters, while injuries are often caused by panic reactions or falls.

The Tyrolean mountain rescue and the Austrian Alpine Association, given these accidents, call for more caution in thunderstorm warnings. Experts recommend breaking off tours in the event of thunderstorms early and, if necessary, switching to indoor activities. Typical alarm signs for approaching thunderstorms can be storm clouds, gusty wind and visible radio discharges. If the return of exposed places and the avoidance of metal structures, are listed as decisive safety measures.

serious accidents and risk of lightning in the Alps

The incident in Tyrol is not the only worrying event that recently occurred in the mountains. On June 9, 2025, a 59-year-old man crashed 15 meters on the Attersee via ferrata and left injuries. On the same day, a mountaineer at the Großglockner lost 300 meters, but survived with the most serious injuries. At the Zugspitze, two climbers also got into an alpine emergency and had to be rescued. These incidents show how dangerous mountaineering can be even in supposedly safe situations, especially under unfavorable weather conditions.

In addition, a 54-year-old alpinist from East Tyrol on the Großglockner was seriously injured in a crash. The accident, which happened around five in the morning, occurred on the normal way, a demanding high tour. The man who got caught with his crampons crashed 200 meters and landed at a height of around 3,600 meters. His tour partner immediately informed the rescue workers and provided him with first aid until the mountain rescue arrived and brought him to the hospital in Lienz.

Danger from lightning strikes and alpine accidents

The danger of lightning strikes is a serious threat to climbers, as the recent accidents illustrate. Often the injuries are not the only ones who suffer from lightning; Often it is also indirect injuries from falls or panic. The Tyrolean Alpine Association therefore emphasizes the importance of adhering to basic safety measurements. The motto in thunderstorms is: "away from all metals".

These current events in the Alps require increased sensitization for the dangers that are associated with mountaineering. The combination of steep climbs, changeable weather and current uncertainty can have fatal consequences for mountaineers. Experts continue to advise you to find out about the weather thoroughly before touring and take security measures to ensure a safe return from the mountains.