Teen judo star Emre Yazgan killed in avalanche at Turkish ski resort PHOTO

A tragic avalanche at a popular ski resort in Erzurum, Türkiye, has claimed the life of rising judo star Emre Yazgan, despite extensive rescue efforts. 

The 18-year-old athlete, who was part of Türkiye's National Judo Team, was at Palandöken Ski Center when the natural disaster struck this week, Caliber.Az reports citing foreing media.

Footage from local news outlets captured the intense search by rescue teams, who scoured the snow-covered terrain for survivors amidst the panic. Local Governor Mustafa Ciftci confirmed the devastating news, stating, "Our athlete Emre Yazgan could not be saved despite all interventions. My condolences to our nation."

The avalanche occurred while Yazgan and his fellow athletes were training, though they had reportedly done so without official permission. Provincial Disaster and Emergency Director Selahattin Karsli shared that the Turkish army's search and rescue teams were promptly involved. Four other individuals were rescued, including one athlete pulled from beneath two meters of snow, though he sustained severe injuries.

Emre Yazgan's tragic death has led to an outpouring of condolences from across the nation, with many mourning the loss of such a talented young athlete. The incident took place in Palandöken, a well-known ski destination that had seen ideal winter conditions, with up to 82 cm of snow recorded.

The avalanche occurred just days after the ski season at Palandöken had started. On December 20, another fatal avalanche struck Pirin Mountain in Bulgaria, where one person died and others are feared trapped. This avalanche was reportedly triggered by off-piste skiers, and rescue operations are still underway. The Bulgarian Mountaineering and Skiing Association has warned of the high risks of avalanches due to rising temperatures and unstable snow conditions.

By Tamilla Hasanova