Six lives were lost in separate mountain accidents across Switzerland's Alps this weekend, underscoring the risks of high-altitude adventures in the region. Near the luxury resort of Zermatt, authorities recovered five bodies after climbers spotted abandoned skis near the 4,199-meter Rimpfischhorn peak. A helicopter search mission located the victims swiftly, with police launching an investigation to determine their identities and the circumstances of the tragedy.
In a separate incident, a 29-year-old climber died in an avalanche on the Morgenhorn in Bern canton. Two others were rescued with minor injuries. The accidents occurred amid Switzerland's ongoing winter sports season, which has already seen 15 avalanche-related fatalities since October 2024, according to the Institute for the Study of Snow and Avalanches.
The Rimpfischhorn – a popular backcountry skiing destination near the Italian border – previously made headlines in March 2024 when six skiers, including five family members, perished in severe weather. While outdoor activities remain central to Swiss culture, these incidents highlight the importance of safety preparedness in alpine environments.
