4 Albanian climbers trapped on snowy mountain saved

TIRANA, Albania – Albanian special police forces have rescued four climbers who got trapped by snow and ice on a southern mountain.

Defence Ministry spokeswoman Albania Qehajaj said the four Albanians became stuck on Sotir mountain, 270 kilometres (170 miles) south of the capital, Tirana.

They had slight injuries but were evaluated as healthy.

Albanian media reported the four fell into a hole after starting their climb on Sunday.

After they made a call for help, an army helicopter was sent to pick them up, but was unable to land.

Special police and army forces later went in on foot to rescue the climbers.

Over the past month, Albania has been covered in snow in mountainous areas, while melting snow and continuous rain have flooded its northwestern part.