The Chalamain Gap, site of the avalanche. Photo: Angus CC-BY-SA-2.0

Rescuers are searching the site of an avalanche in the Cairngorms after reports people are missing.

Two mountain rescue teams have been called to the scene at the Chalamain Gap near the northern end of the Lairig Ghru.

Northern Constabulary said the avalanche was reported shortly after 12.30pm today and members of the Cairngorm and RAF Lossiemouth Mountain Rescue Teams are in the area, 3km (2 miles) west of the main CairnGorm Mountain ski centre.

A police spokesperson said: “Police can confirm a number of people were caught up in the avalanche. There are possibly three people unaccounted for.”

“Searches are continuing in the area.”

A Sea King helicopter from RAF Lossiemouth has also joined the rescue operation, along with handlers and animals from the Search and Rescue Dogs Association Scotland.

Police said no further details are available at present.