The Italian Alps - Credit: Philipp Schlabs phil_bill [CC0], via Wikimedia Commons

As the weekend comes to a close, there are reports of up to six people being killed in avalanches in different regions of the Italian Alps.

On Sunday, two skiers were found killed by avalanches. One was in the Valle d'Aosta region and one was in the South Tyrol region. Monday morning, four skiers were found dead and brought off the mountain near the town of Courmayeur. This count only includes those confirmed dead. There are reports of skiers still missing, which could increase the death count from the weekend.

Authorities from all of the Italian Alps regions, and surrounding countries, still warn of high avalanche danger. Remember to stay as safe as possible when skiing in those regions. Make sure to have and understand how to use avalanche safety equipment, use a mountain guide anytime it is possible, and if you aren't sure, then don't go.