A Polish tourist died Friday morning after a 200-meter fall while attempting to climb Lodowy Szczyt in the High Tatras.
Mountain Rescue Alerted to Incident
Slovak mountain rescue services (HZS) received a report of the accident in the area of Lodowy Zwornik in the High Tatras on Friday morning.
Fatal Fall During Ascent
Two Polish tourists were attempting to summit Lodowy Szczyt (2,628 meters), the third highest peak in the Tatras. One of the tourists slipped on the snow and fell approximately 200 meters, sustaining fatal injuries.
Recovery of Remains
HZS rescuers transported the body by helicopter to Stary Smokowiec.
Slippery Conditions and Avalanche Risk
Mountain rescuers are warning of icy conditions in the Tatras. Both Polish and Slovak Tatras are currently under a Level 1 avalanche risk (low).
TOPR’s Assessment of Snow Conditions
TOPR (Polish Mountain Rescue) notes that snow is very hard on south-facing slopes in the morning, increasing the risk of falls and slips.
Caution Advised on Steep Slopes
TOPR advises extreme caution on very steep or extreme slopes.
Changing Conditions Throughout the Day
As temperatures rise in the afternoon, snow on sun-exposed slopes becomes wet and unstable. Low cloud ceilings also limit visibility and can lead to disorientation. Lower parts of the Tatras are becoming muddy with melting snow.
Trips for Experienced Hikers
Tourists planning trips in the higher parts of the Tatras should have experience in winter mountain hiking and appropriate winter equipment (crampons, ice axe, helmet, avalanche safety kit) and know how to use it.
Avalanche Risk Details
Under a Level 1 avalanche risk, the snowpack is generally well-bonded and stable. Avalanches are generally only possible with significant additional load in a few places, on very steep or extreme slopes. Small and medium avalanches may descend spontaneously.
