Four missing mountaineers found dead under avalanche in Central Greece
New details have emerged regarding the four mountaineers who went missing for nearly 48 hours in the Vardousia mountain range in the prefecture of Phocis and were later found unconscious.
According to available information, the four climbers were discovered buried beneath an avalanche just below the mountain’s summit, confirming the primary scenario put forward by rescue teams from the outset. The area where they were found is considered extremely dangerous, marked by steep passages and near-vertical slopes.
Experienced mountaineers and rescuers stressed that under conditions of fresh and unstable snow, even a minor noise or a raised voice can trigger a large-scale avalanche.
The victims were found in very close proximity to one another, almost embracing, indicating that they had no time to react or escape. Earlier, rescuers had located tracks that suddenly disappeared—an early sign that strongly suggested an avalanche.
The group had begun their ascent in favorable weather conditions, but the situation deteriorated due to the altitude and the area’s challenging terrain. One of the climbers was reportedly very familiar with the route, having lived in the village of Athanasios Diakos in recent years and having completed the same ascent many times.
Recovery and transport operations are continuing with extreme caution, as the site is particularly inaccessible. Authorities said the process will be completed when weather and operational conditions allow.
A fifth member who did not join
According to tempo24.news, a fifth mountaineer had planned to join the group but was ultimately unable to participate due to work obligations. It was reportedly this individual who alerted authorities after his friends failed to make contact.
The same source noted that one of the deceased climbers, originally from Lechaina in the prefecture of Ilia, was highly experienced, with numerous ascents—many on difficult routes—to his name.
Timeline of the tragedy
The four friends, including one resident of Athanasios Diakos, set out on Christmas morning from the village toward Mount Korakas. During their ascent, under conditions that remain unclear, they appear to have encountered a snowstorm. Shortly afterward, mobile phone signals were lost, making all communication impossible.
