Austria battles landslides and avalanches as heavy rain triggers chaos
Heavy rain and unstable snow conditions caused major disruptions in Austria on Tuesday. Two roads were blocked by landslides and avalanches, while authorities warned of extreme danger across the region. No injuries were reported in either incident.
The day began with an avalanche striking the Kaunertal Road (L18) in Landeck district during the morning. Crews worked quickly to clear the debris, and the route fully reopened by 4 p.m. Meanwhile, in Kufstein district, a landslide closed the Hinterthiersee Road (L30) near Thiersee that afternoon. Drivers were directed to the Thiersee Road (L37) as a detour, with the closure expected to last overnight due to continuing rain.
Avalanche conditions remained severe across Austria, with warning level four in place for most areas. Wet slab avalanches threatened elevations below 2,000 metres, while glide-snow avalanches posed risks at similar heights. Nearly all districts faced hazardous off-piste conditions.
Since 15 February, at least 12 people have died in avalanches across Austria, nine of them in Tirol. By 22 February, the total winter season fatalities reached 24, with West Austria—including Tyrol, Vorarlberg, and Salzburg—hit hardest.
Authorities continue to monitor unstable slopes as rain and snow increase risks. The Kaunertal Road has reopened, but the Hinterthiersee Road remains closed for now. Winter sports enthusiasts are urged to exercise extreme caution in backcountry areas.
