Seven climbers killed after avalanche in the French Alps

The avalanche hit three groups of climbers, officials told local media.

15 September 2015, 4:18pm

1 min read

The Pelvoux district of the French Alps, where an avalanche struck several groups of climbers

Seven climbers have been killed and another seriously injured in avalanche in the Pelvoux district of the French Alps, officials say.

The avalanche happened at around midday local time on the 4,000m-high Dome de Neige des Ecrins mountain, according to reports.

Foreigners are among the dead but nationalities are yet to be revealed.

The Dome de Neige is said to be popular among climbers because of its relatively easy routes to the summit.

The avalanche hit three groups of climbers, officials told local media. Rescuers are still checking to determine there were any more victims.

Christian Flagella, a local police commander, said conditions were currently "winter-like" in the area.