Avalanche danger in Austria: Federal Army is ready

In large parts of Austria, the snow situation is very delicate. The Bundesheer is well prepared for this weather situation. In order to be able to act quickly in case of emergency, the Bundesheer maintains over 400 soldiers and up to three helicopters ready around the clock. Last Sunday, one AB 212 helicopter was already in use in Upper Styria, clearing power lines of snow with its "downwash" - in the cover photo: blasting avalanches.

Soldiers ready around the clock

In Salzburg, over 100 soldiers are currently on standby. Approximately 150 soldiers could support civilian emergency services in Tyrol in case of emergency. In order to be immediately ready in case of emergency, around 30 soldiers in Carinthia are on standby. The Bundesheer has about 60 soldiers ready in Vorarlberg. Furthermore, there are about 30 soldiers on standby in Upper Austria, over 20 in Lower Austria, and approximately 30 in Upper Styria. Currently, a "Black Hawk" S-70, an Agusta Bell 212 helicopter, and an "Alouette" III are continuously available for assistance missions.

Available alpine specialists and helicopters

The Bundesheer maintains about 420 alpine soldiers, mountain experts, and three helicopters for avalanche missions ready around the clock. These forces can be increased as needed. The forces specially equipped and trained for high mountains are available for assistance missions until at least the end of April. With a total of 16 avalanche intervention teams and groups in seven provinces and three helicopters, the Bundesheer can quickly support civilian emergency services if they need help.

Tasks of the soldiers

The task of the soldiers is to support civilian forces on site if needed. The army also ensures that relief and rescue operations can be carried out over a longer period of time. In addition, the soldiers of the intervention teams can be sent out to shovel off flat roofs and similar structures during heavy snowfall. Alpine qualification is required to work safely in these conditions.

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