Avalanche Incidents Surge Across Italy During Winter 2025/26

Avalanche incidents increased significantly during the 2025/26 winter season, prompting more rescue operations across snowy terrains and mountain areas. Contributing factors include the rising number of outdoor enthusiasts engaging in uncontrolled activities, misjudgment of terrain, limited knowledge of prevention and self-rescue techniques, and poor understanding of weather and snow reports. Social media and media outlets have also fueled misinformation, sparking online debates on safety and the need for better education.

Rescue efforts in Italy involve both state and voluntary alpine rescue teams, operating on a non-compulsory basis, with ongoing discussions about cost management and intervention fees. Local reports highlight instances of mountain guides assisting stranded hikers, while concerns persist regarding the low culture of prevention and the lack of dedicated safety training programs in Italian schools.
Italian Version