Climber falls 12 metres on Tannheim Valley route

An 18-year-old German climber was injured after falling about 12 metres on Rote Flüh in the Tannheim Valley on Saturday, ORF reported. Her belay rope and climbing partner stopped the fall.

The two 18-year-olds began the Südverschneidung route shortly before noon. At about 3.20pm, one was leading the fifth pitch while her partner belayed from a stance.

According to police, the lead climber lost track of the route and could not find the next belay station. As she tried to climb back down to the last protection point, a handhold broke and she fell. She sustained injuries of an unspecified severity to her torso.

Unable to continue climbing, the pair called for help. A rescue helicopter hoisted both women from the route, and the injured climber was flown to Reutte District Hospital for further treatment.