Hundreds of tourists were stranded in ski resorts as avalanches blocked roads in China.

The holidaymakers were on their way home but were trapped on the mountain when 31 recorded avalanches piled up and buried the 60-mile stretch that was the only way out in Burqin County, Xinjiang region, on January 13.

Footage shows the families in their cars that had been partially engulfed by snow. Helicopters and officers were deployed to the area to help rescue the guests.

The Kanas Scenic Area Management Committee provided free meals and accommodation for those affected.

Zhang, a bed and breakfast owner in Hemu, one of the villages in the scenic area, said the blizzard caused more than six feet of snow to pile up in the yard, while Chen, one of the stranded tourists in the village, said he and five friends have been staying there since January 5.

He said: 'Starting from January 11 to 14, we have been trapped for a full four days.

'The original plan was to leave Hemu on January 11, but it was nearly impossible to do so since January 10. When I slid into the snow, the snow swallowed me whole, and when I climbed out, I was gasping for breath.'

So far, 31 avalanche points have been discovered, with 25 already cleared, and the remaining six being actively cleared, local media reported.

The Kanas Management Committee said in a January 15 statement: 'Due to the recent impact of continuous heavy snow and extreme weather, the roads in the Kanas Scenic Area have been blocked by avalanches. 'Despite the full efforts of the highway transportation department to rescue and clear the roads, some sections are still repeatedly experiencing avalanches.

'In order to ensure the personal safety of the general public and tourists, the Kanas Scenic Area Management Committee has decided to temporarily close the scenic area (including Hana Village, Baihaba Village, and Hemu Village) until January 20.

'Any changes to the opening time will be promptly updated and announced.'