Four hikers missing for three
days in the Abruzzo mountains were probably swept away by an
avalanche and died there earlier this week, rescue services said
Tuesday.
The four, from the town of Avezzano, went missing amid driving
snow and gales on Mt Velino on Sunday.
Search efforts in the area were hampered by more heavy snowfall
on Tuesday.
Even mountain rescue dogs were struggling.
Rescue teams were also facing a fresh avalanche risk.
A helicopter able to plant 'microcharges' to clear snow was sent
to the scene.
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