Chinese media announced that rescuers managed to evacuate two tourists on Tuesday from a ski resort in northwest China where avalanches trapped more than a thousand people for a week.

The avalanches closed roads, stranding tourists and residents in a village in Altai Prefecture in Xinjiang Province, near China's borders with Mongolia, Russia, and Kazakhstan.

The injured were airlifted by a military helicopter, with supplies such as food and fuel being transported.

The China Central Radio and Television reported that the snow-blocked road was opened on Tuesday, allowing vehicles to enter and tourists to leave.

Footage showed dozens of tourists carrying their luggage over snow-covered areas towards a military helicopter, while a long line of cars was seen driving on the reopened road.

Official media quoted the local highway administration saying that avalanches affected 350 kilometers of roads. Road clearing efforts were hampered by the geography of the area, as the roads leading to the area are located in a valley with tree-covered slopes.

Altai Prefecture, also known as a skiing destination, has experienced heavy snowfall since early January. China Daily quoted the Xinjiang Meteorological Office as reporting at least 31 avalanches as of Saturday.

Authorities in the Kanas area said the area will be closed until at least January 20 due to ongoing severe weather.