Four people have died and others are believed to be injured after an avalanche in a French valley.

A huge search and rescue operation was launched after snow cover slipped in the commune of Mont-Dore in central France on Sunday afternoon.

About 50 rescuers including specialised mountain police were involved, as well as dogs specially trained to find avalanche victims.

The mayor of Mont-Dore, Sebastien Dubourg, praised those involved in the rescue.

“The Val d’Enfer is heavy snow. It’s a funnel. The mountain is unfortunately stronger than us,” he was quoted by regional news outlet La Montagne as saying.

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An investigation into what happened has been opened by the local public prosecutor’s office.

Joel Mathurin, prefect of the Puy-de-Dome region, sent his condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims. He also asked everyone to exercise the utmost caution in the area.

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