A tourist died in the Tatra Mountains on Saturday after losing consciousness and sliding down a steep, snowy slope, according to the Tatra Volunteer Search and Rescue (TOPR). The incident underscores the inherent dangers of winter hiking in the region, even with a currently low avalanche risk.
TOPR received a call at 11:23 local time reporting the incident near Starorobociański Wierch. Witnesses stated the hiker suddenly collapsed and slid towards Kończysty Wierch. Despite immediate resuscitation efforts by fellow tourists and subsequent advanced life support provided by a TOPR rescue team, the man was pronounced dead after approximately 30 minutes. His body was transported by helicopter to a landing site in Zakopane.
This tragedy marks another somber event in the Tatras this winter. In February, two Polish nationals died in an avalanche on the Slovakian side of the mountains, and another hiker was found deceased after going missing on Orla Perć, according to reports. The incident highlights the unpredictable nature of mountain conditions and the importance of preparedness.
“Tourists present at the scene immediately began resuscitation efforts,” TOPR stated in a released communiqué. “A helicopter with a rescue crew was dispatched to the scene. After reaching the location, rescuers were lowered to the victim and initiated advanced resuscitation procedures. After about 30 minutes of resuscitation, the TOPR doctor confirmed the death of the tourist.”
Difficult Mountain Conditions
TOPR is reminding hikers that conditions in the Tatra Mountains remain challenging. While the current avalanche risk is assessed as low – a level 1 on a scale of 5 – trails are often icy and slippery in the mornings, becoming wet and unstable as the day progresses. Tatra Volunteer Search and Rescue emphasizes the necessity of appropriate winter equipment for those venturing into higher elevations, including crampons, an ice axe, a helmet, and avalanche safety gear (ABC).
The organization also recently noted a concerning trend: the first clear day following significant snowfall and strong winds often presents the highest risk for accidents. RMF24 reported earlier in February that a third-level avalanche warning was in effect, urging inexperienced hikers to avoid higher altitudes.
Special caution is advised in the Dolina Pięciu Stawów (Valley of the Five Polish Lakes) area, where conditions remain particularly hazardous. “You must be very careful when approaching the shelter in the vicinity of Dolina Pięciu Stawów. This section is currently dangerous and threatened by avalanches,” warned a TOPR duty rescuer.
TOPR’s Ongoing Commitment to Mountain Rescue
Established in 1909, TOPR is one of the oldest mountain rescue organizations in the world. The organization, comprised of approximately 250 members – including 48 professional rescuers as of 2024 – provides critical search and rescue services in the Polish Tatra Mountains without charging for its assistance, as mandated by Polish law. Rescuers undergo extensive training, lasting between 1.5 and 3 years, covering topography, climbing, skiing, spelunking, lifesaving, and first aid.
The recent passing of Andrzej Gąsienica-Józkowy, a long-serving TOPR rescuer who died on March 1st at the age of 79, serves as a poignant reminder of the dedication and sacrifice inherent in mountain rescue work. Gąsienica-Józkowy participated in 463 rescue missions and over 440 ski accident interventions during his 40-year career.
As winter conditions persist in the Tatra Mountains, TOPR continues to urge hikers to stay informed about current conditions, assess their abilities realistically, and prioritize safety. The organization’s ongoing commitment to rescue, combined with responsible hiker behavior, is crucial for minimizing tragedies in this challenging and beautiful landscape.
The investigation into Saturday’s incident is ongoing. Authorities will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates as they become available. Hikers are encouraged to check the latest weather forecasts and avalanche reports before venturing into the mountains and to inform others of their planned routes.
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