The greater attendance in the Tatra National Park in 2024 translated into more TOPR intervention. In some categories of rescue operations there were more than three more time. Rescuers say that some accidents could not occur if tourists were better preparing for expeditions.
In total, in 2024, TOPR rescuers assisted 1330 to tourists, mountaineers and skiers, which in relation to 2023 means an increase by as much as 36 percent. 18 accidents turned out to be fatal.
Tatra rescuers noted that by as much as 112 percent The number of so -called Taternickie accidents – last year rescuers assisted 53 climbers, and in 2023 such victims were 25.
In 2024, the Tatra Mountains were visited by over five million tourists.
More avalanche accidents
According to TOPR statistics, the causes of events also include sudden illnesses, which in 2024 were reported 251 more than a year earlier – 151 (increase by 66 %). Rescuers notice that this large growth is probably related to A series of cases such as diarrhea, vomiting, dehydrationwhich occurred massively during the last vacation. Among the causes of mountain accidents, rescuers also mention: the lack of appropriate tourists' skills, inadequate equipment and error.
Last year, TOPR rescuers also recorded a large increase in avalanche accidents – they saved 11 people covered or kidnapped by heaps of snow, and in 2023 only three were injured.
But fewer tourists got lost. In 2023, they were 44 people, in 2024 – only 33. There were also less skirt and freeride accidents (extreme conventions in difficult terrain – in the case of the Tatra Mountains mainly on skis).
Some accidents could be avoided
“At least some of these events could not happen if visitors to the Tatras planned better trips, prepared in terms of condition and had the appropriate equipment along with the ability to use it” – comment on TOPR rescuers on their website.
The statistics published by TOPR show that 458 saved people did not suffer any injuries; 453 injured were slightly injured, and 401 suffered severe injuries. Last year, 18 people were killed in the Tatra Mountains, and in 2023 there were 15 fatal events here. A helicopter took part in 439 rescue operations in the highest Polish mountains – summed up TOPR rescuers.
Last year was record -breaking in terms of tourist attendance in the Tatra Mountains. 5 million 91 thousand entered the trails of the Tatra National Park. people.
Source of the main photo: TOPR/Facebook