- Thirty-five fatalities occur in the Bavarian mountain range.
In the Bavarian Alps, at least 35 lives have been claimed this year, as stated by Bavaria's Interior and Sports Minister Joachim Herrmann (CSU), during a rescue drill at Berggasthof Hocheck close to Oberaudorf. Despite the primary hiking season yet to come, this number is alarming. Originally, the Interior Department reported 33 fatalities up until August 19th. However, additional deaths were confirmed by a spokesperson, bringing the total to 35 by Friday. Compared to the same time last year when 21 deaths occurred in the Bavarian Alps, and the entire year of 2023 with 41 fatalities, 2024 is proving to be quite lethal.
The tragic accidents in skiing and mountaineering this year have predominantly occurred around the Zugspitze, where six lives have already been lost.
The threatening environment in the mountains is reportedly intensified by climate change, according to Herrmann. "Enhanced rockfalls due to the melting of permafrost can potentially damage or block mountain trails," he explained. Moreover, the excessive snowfall at high altitudes last winter, which persisted into the summer season, has increased the risk of accidents. Herrmann urged mountain enthusiasts to plan their journeys meticulously, avoid unnecessary risks, and be mindful of others.
As per Klaus Stöttner, the head of the Kuratorium für alpine Sicherheit, physical fitness plays a significant role in mountain safety. "Cardiovascular issues have been identified as the leading cause of accidents in the Bavarian and Austrian Alps, based on accident reports," he said.
The Commission has expressed concerns about the increased number of fatalities in the Bavarian Alps, which has reached 35 this year. The Commission also recognizes the role of climate change in exacerbating the threatening environment in the mountains, leading to enhanced rockfalls and increased risks.
