Unprepared Hikers Lucky to Survive 2 Avalanches in French Pyrenees

Two young brothers from Bordeaux, France, narrowly escaped tragedy on Thursday after being swept away by two successive avalanches while hiking above Lake Estom, near Cauterets in the French Pyrenees. The pair, both in their twenties, were not equipped for winter weather and lacked avalanche detection gear, according to rescue officials.

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The incident occurred at over 6,500 feet (2,000 meters), where spring snow remains unstable. The brothers, who had set out for a multi-day trek, were caught first by a slide that dragged them several dozen meters. Before rescuers could arrive, a second avalanche struck. “It is a miracle that they remained on the surface and are still alive,” said the head of the CRS Pyrénées-Gavarnie mountain rescue post.

The alert was raised at 4:15 p.m., prompting a rapid response. A helicopter from Tarbes, carrying a SAMU (Service d’Aide Médicale Urgente) doctor and a dog team, was dispatched to the scene. One brother suffered a suspected pelvic fracture and was airlifted to Tarbes hospital; his condition is not life-threatening. The other escaped without serious injury. Both were returned to the valley within two hours of the rescue.

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The brothers were experienced summer hikers but underestimated the dangers of spring conditions in the high mountains. “At this time, spring snow is particularly unstable,” the rescue chief explained, warning that avalanches are more likely during the warmest hours of the day.

“Before I go, I must:
– Check the weather (not where I am, but where I plan to go);
– Choose a route that suits my calves (and my level);
– Carry a fully charged phone, a fitting outfit and shoes, a rescue kit, and the minimum vital in a backpack with water, some food and warm clothes (yes, although I was putting on my flip flops the night before!) ).
In short, spring at the bottom, winter at the top and PGHM still at the top!”

– French Gendarmerie warning

Authorities urge hikers to plan for winter conditions in the Pyrenees, carry appropriate safety equipment, and avoid high-altitude routes during peak sun hours. To reduce risk, early starts and returns before 2 p.m. are recommended.

The Pyrenees region, including Cauterets, has seen recent snowfall and moderate avalanche risk.