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Climbers struck by Alps avalanche Climbers struck by Alps avalanche
(30 minutes later)
Nine mountaineers are missing after an avalanche swept down part of the Mont Blanc range in the French Alps. Ten mountaineers are missing after an avalanche swept down part of the Mont Blanc range in the French Alps.
They were among a party of climbers who were hit by a wall of snow 200m (600ft) long and about 45m wide while climbing Mont-Blanc du Tacul. They were among a party of climbers who were hit by a wall of snow 200m (600ft) long and about 45m wide while roped together climbing Mont-Blanc du Tacul.
At least eight people are reported to have been rescued and taken to a hospital in Chamonix.At least eight people are reported to have been rescued and taken to a hospital in Chamonix.
Three helicopters and dozens of rescuers with specially trained dogs are continuing the search.Three helicopters and dozens of rescuers with specially trained dogs are continuing the search.
A rescue team spokesman told the AFP news agency those rescued included five French climbers and three Italians, aged between 26 and 37 years. Officials told the AFP news agency the missing included five Austrian and two Swiss climbers. The nationality of the others is not yet known.
Those brought to safety are reported to include five French climbers and three Italians, aged between 26 and 37 years.
Some were dug out from the snow by rescuers, while others managed to free themselves from the snow.Some were dug out from the snow by rescuers, while others managed to free themselves from the snow.
France's Interior Minister Michele Alliot-Marie is expected to travel to Chamonix to visit the injured.