English Section

Rescuers warn of weather risks in Polish mountains

11.01.2022 18:00
Rescuers have issued weather warnings for Poland’s southern Tatra mountains, advising hikers to be prepared for difficult conditions in the higher parts of the range.
Audio
A Tatra Volunteer Rescue Service helicopter in the air.
A Tatra Volunteer Rescue Service helicopter in the air.Photo: PAP/Grzegorz Momot

The winter school break is approaching and the Tatra Mountains in the south of the country are the most popular destination for both winter sports enthusiasts and those who enjoy wandering through mountain trails.

However, those who venture into the higher parts of the mountains need to remember that this is no stroll in the park, rescuers have warned.

Just last week, rescuers in the Slovak part of the Tatras found bodies of three Polish climbers who attempted to conquer Gerlach, the highest peak of the mountains.

This week rescuers on the Polish side of the Tatra Mountains found a body believed to be that of a man who went missing on Saturday. The man died after falling from a great height.

The authorities and mountain rescuers at the Tatra National Park have sounded the alarm that the conditions in the higher parts of the mountains are difficult and advised hikers to plan their trips carefully.

To enjoy the mountains one has to be prepared, both when venturing out on difficult mountain trails and when enjoying rides on the slopes, the Tatra Volunteer Rescue Service (TOPR) said.

A special team of police officers on skis will begin patrolling the slopes in mid-January to ensure the safety of the skiers.

Photo: Photo: PAP/Darek Delmanowicz

Radio Poland's Agnieszka Bielawska has the story.

Click on the audio player above to listen.