A tragic avalanche claimed the life of a skier in Salzburg's Lungau region on Christmas Day.

The local man, skiing off-piste near the Speiereck summit, triggered a 60-meter snow slab around 11:30 am.

Despite being well-equipped with avalanche safety gear, including an airbag, he was unable to deploy it in time.

Four mountain rescuers, who were nearby, quickly located and dug him out, but he was already deceased.

Authorities triggered a district alarm, deploying search dogs and special equipment to ensure no other victims were buried.

This incident highlights the dangers of skiing in unsecured areas, even for experienced individuals.