Typos

Asphyxiation Caused Deaths of 4 Mountaineers in Vardousia

Published December 29, 2025, 15:23
Asphyxiation Caused Deaths of 4 Mountaineers in Vardousia

The forensic examination revealed that the four mountaineers who lost their lives in Vardousia died of asphyxiation. No external injuries were found on the bodies, suggesting they were buried under a large amount of snow. Initial investigations indicated a possible avalanche, and according to the president of the Athanasios Diakos community, the mountaineers themselves may have triggered it unintentionally, with their footsteps destabilizing the snow. The difficult weather conditions, combined with recent snowfall, appear to have contributed to the tragic accident. Experienced EMAK personnel and mountain guides report that even good weather, with rising temperatures, can cause avalanches. Rescuers were able to locate the bodies thanks to a smartwatch worn by one of the mountaineers, which recorded their route. An EMAK rescuer stated that the mountaineers were likely swept away by the avalanche while close together and became trapped in the snow.