11.   Avalanche warnings remained high, however, and all land routes to the area were blocked.

12.   Avalanche warning signs were posted at the downhill ski run, and the lifts had been stopped due to strong winds.

13.   Avalanche warnings remained high throughout western Austria.

14.   Heavy snow in the Italian Alps prompted authorities Thursday to issue avalanche warnings.

15.   In the Oetz valley east of Galtuer another slide late Friday trapped three American snowboards, who took to the slopes despite severe avalanche warnings.

16.   In the Oetz valley east of Galtuer another slide late Friday trapped three American snowboarders, who took to the slopes despite severe avalanche warnings.

17.   In the Oetz valley east of Galtuer, another slide late Friday trapped three American snowboarders, who had taken to the slopes despite severe avalanche warnings.

18.   Recent heavy snowfall followed by blue skies and sunshine Monday had prompted official avalanche warnings for both areas.

19.   The Canadian Avalanche Association issued an extreme avalanche warning for the area.

20.   French mountain rescue services have issued a serious avalanche warning and advised skiers not to ski off-piste.