Overview
- A massive avalanche swept down Mount Mizhirgi in the Bezengi Gorge and struck a group of 33 climbers on Sunday, officials said.
- Eleven people have been confirmed dead, six were hospitalized with injuries, and six remain missing according to regional emergency services.
- Search teams of roughly 50–56 rescuers backed by Mi-8 helicopters continue operations but face dangerous terrain and a high risk of secondary slides.
- The Investigative Committee and the Kabardino-Balkaria prosecutor’s office have launched criminal negligence inquiries that may examine expedition safety and permitting.
- Eyewitness video shows a fast-moving wall of snow and ice and media reports have suggested a hanging-glacier collapse as a possible trigger, a theory that officials have not yet confirmed.