Avalanche kills four in southern Alps

Four skiers have been killed and another is missing after an avalanche in the southern Alps, French authorities said.

Another skier was injured following the incident in Entraunes, near the Italian border.

During a visit to the southern city of Nice, French prime minister Edouard Philippe told reporters that rescue operations are still ongoing.

Local media said the skiers, including a guide, were off-trail in a remote area of the Mercantour national park.

French authorities had warned against a high risk of avalanche in the Alps following heavy snowfall in recent days.

#BREAKING At least four people have been killed in an avalanche near Entraunes, in the southern French Alps near Italy. Officials say another person has been injured and one more is missing. pic.twitter.com/3DCgpW2sUY

— AFP News Agency (@AFP) March 2, 2018

- Press Association and Digital Desk