An avalanche on the slopes of Mont Blanc has claimed the life of world-renowned backcountry skier Emilie Rousseau, sending shockwaves through the global skiing community.
The 28-year-old French athlete was filming a documentary project focused on climate change and glacial retreat when a massive slab avalanche was triggered in the late morning hours. Rousseau, along with two members of her team, was caught in the slide while traversing a high-risk ridge. Mountain rescue teams arrived within an hour but found Rousseau buried under several feet of compacted snow. She was declared dead at the scene, while the two others sustained minor injuries and were treated for hypothermia.
Known for her fearless descents and environmental advocacy, Rousseau was a pioneer in extreme skiing and a vocal supporter of preserving alpine ecosystems. Her death has not only devastated fans and fellow athletes but also environmentalists and documentary filmmakers who admired her commitment to using sport for awareness.
Tributes have poured in across social media and international news outlets. Olympic medalist and friend Sophie Keller wrote, “Emilie wasn’t just a skier. She was a warrior for the planet. The mountains were her canvas, and she painted with passion and purpose. This loss is immeasurable.”
The French Ski Federation (FFS) has issued a statement expressing condolences to Rousseau’s family and announcing a national moment of silence during upcoming competitions.
Officials are investigating the incident and reviewing the region’s avalanche risk warnings, which were reportedly at Level 3 (considerable) on the day of the tragedy.
Rousseau is survived by her parents and younger sister. A public memorial is expected to be held in her hometown of Annecy later this week.
As snow continues to fall over Chamonix, the echo of her legacy remains etched into the mountains she loved—and ultimately gave her life to.
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