A Spanish tourist has died after being caught in an avalanche on Mount Aragats, Armenia’s highest mountain, which rises over 4,000 meters. Eight other Spanish climbers were rescued, with seven requiring hospitalization, while one escaped unharmed.

Rescue Efforts and Survivor Assistance

Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares confirmed that the Spanish government worked closely with Armenian authorities to rescue the climbers. The uninjured survivor helped locate the missing climber, but worsening weather conditions made the rescue more difficult.

Group Included Firefighters from Cataluña

The group consisted of nine climbers from Cataluña, including three firefighters from the Generalitat. Catalan Interior Minister Nuria Parlon expressed gratitude to Armenian rescue teams and assured them that the Catalan government was assisting the affected families.

Local Officials Confirm the Incident

The mayor of La Seu d’Urgell, Joan Barrera, confirmed the death of the Catalan climber. He reported that four of the survivors suffered serious injuries, while the others had minor wounds. He added that the climbers were in shock and eager to return home.

Avalanche Risk Warnings Had Been Issued

Armenian environmental authorities had previously warned of a high avalanche risk above 2,500 meters due to rising temperatures. Officials had advised against climbing major peaks in the region. Despite these warnings, the Spanish group attempted the ascent, leading to the tragic incident.

Main image:Wikipedia/Armenak Margarian