TRENTO, Italy — A 20-year-old Polish skier remains in critical condition after being caught in an avalanche while skiing off-piste on the Presena Glacier near the Tonale Pass, according to multiple Italian media reports.
The avalanche occurred around midday in a valley adjacent to marked runs descending from the Presena 3000 area, part of a high-altitude ski zone that reaches nearly 3,000 meters in the Italian Alps.
The skier was partially buried by the slide while skiing with his brother, who managed to avoid the avalanche and alert rescuers.
Rescue teams from the Trentino Alpine and Speleological Rescue service, already operating in the area, were first to respond. They were joined by helicopter crews equipped with search dogs and additional Alpine Rescue personnel from nearby stations. The skier was located and given resuscitation treatment at the scene before being airlifted to Santa Chiara Hospital in Trento.
Officials said the man suffered severe injuries and remains hospitalized in intensive care, where doctors are closely monitoring his condition. Reports indicated he experienced prolonged burial and required advanced life-saving measures before transport.
The Presena Glacier area is a popular but challenging ski destination known for its high elevation and off-piste terrain. Authorities continue to remind skiers that venturing outside controlled slopes carries significant avalanche risk, particularly during periods of unstable snow conditions.
