Large-scale avalanche search near Gaustatoppen called off after skier reports safe

A major search operation was launched near Gaustablikk ski resort in southern Norway on Saturday after ski tracks were spotted leading into an avalanche zone, but was later called off when the missing skier contacted authorities to confirm they were unharmed.

Emergency services, including three helicopters, search dogs, and 15 rescue personnel, were deployed to the area between Gaustablikk and Toreskyrkja in Tinn municipality at around 16:45 after reports of the tracks. The avalanche, measuring approximately 20 by 30 meters, had occurred earlier in the day.

“If anyone was in the area and has information about the avalanche, police would like to know,” Ottar Steinstø, operations manager for the Southeast Police District, stated during the search. The skier later contacted authorities, confirming they had been alone when the avalanche occurred at around 13:00 and were uninjured.

A second avalanche was reported near Høgevarde in Flå municipality, close to Norefjell, but search efforts were halted after it was determined the slide was likely old.

The Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate (NVE) had issued a moderate avalanche warning (level two) for western Telemark on Friday, cautioning that weak snow layers could still trigger large slides. An upgraded orange alert—indicating significant danger—will take effect on Sunday, with authorities advising the public to avoid avalanche-prone terrain.

Source: NRK Vestfold og Telemark