In pictures: Turkey avalanche rescue efforts take deadly turn
A new avalanche hit eastern Turkey as emergency responders were trying to rescue victims trapped in the snow. Many rescuers were caught in the second avalanche, taking the death toll up to 38.
Twin avalanches hit eastern Turkey
Emergency crews working to rescue victims from an avalanche were caught in a second avalanche on Wednesday. At least 15 other people were believed to be trapped in the snow.
Rescue turns deadly
Five people died in the first avalanche on Tuesday, which hit the site close to Turkey's border with Iran. The second avalanche on Wednesday afternoon took the death toll up to 38, most victims were rescue workers.
Buried allive for 25 minutes
A snow-clearing vehicle and a minibus were buried in the first avalanche. All the passengers of the minibus made it out alive. The operator of the snow-clearing vehicle reportedly remained buried for 25 minutes before he escaped and got help.
Police officers killed
300 rescuers worked through the night after the first avalanche, even as heavy snow, strong winds and fog disrupted the operation. According to government officials, eight military police officers, three village guards and a firefighter are among those killed.