According to the state television broadcaster, RAI, two bodies have been recovered so far from Hotel Rigopiano in Abruzzo, while two more bodies were discovered in the snow.
Approximately 30 people were thought to have been inside the hotel when the avalanche happened.
Archbishop Nunzio Galantino, General Secretary of the Italian Bishops' Conference, told Vatican Radio: "The Pope is being kept up to date constantly.
"Every once in a while, he calls one of the affected bishops."
Fears of another avalanche and that buildings could collapse, and snow blocking access to the area have all been hampering search efforts.
Speaking with RAI, fire service spokesman Luca Cari said: "Unfortunately, we haven't had any positive signs [of life] since the morning."
The avalanche, which struck on Wednesday, followed a number of earthquakes in the region.
Archbishop Galantino said the disaster had left local residents deeply disturbed but the Pope has asked to be constantly updated on development.
While the first rescuers arrived on skis and firefighters were dispatched via helicopter, the road to the hotel was widened overnight, allowing for heavier vehicles to arrive and aid the search.