UPDATE - At least 4 killed in avalanche in eastern Turkey

UPDATES NUMBER RESCUED, CHANGES DECK

By Mesut Varol

VAN (AA) - At least four people were found dead and seven others injured after an avalanche hit a minibus Tuesday in eastern Turkey.

The avalanche occurred during bad weather conditions and struck the minibus at kilometer 33 (mile 20) of the Van-Bahcesaray highway in Van province.

“Five people were rescued during the search. Unfortunately, four other people found dead under the avalanche,” said Governor and Acting Metropolitan Municipality Mayor of Van Mehmet Emin Bilmez.

“The search and rescue efforts of our teams in the region are continuing,” he added.

Surrounded by colossal mountains, the Bahcesaray district experiences harsh winter conditions.

*Writing by Havva Kara Aydin