By Abida Kahlun
Bureau Chief Helsinki
SNN News Finland
A massive avalanche swept down the slopes of Mount Mizhirgi in the Bezengi Gorge of Kabardino-Balkaria on the evening of September 6, striking a group of 33 climbers and leaving 11 dead, six injured, and six others unaccounted for. The Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations said ten climbers were able to descend safely on their own.
What Happened on Mount Mizhirgi
The avalanche broke loose from Mount Mizhirgi around 5:00 p.m. local time on Sunday and surged through the climbing group in the Bezengi Gorge, a steep and remote high-mountain area in Russia’s North Caucasus. By Monday morning, September 7, rescuers confirmed 11 fatalities and six hospitalizations. Ten climbers made their way down without assistance, while six others have not been located.
The regional branch of Russia’s Emergency Situations Ministry said about 56 rescuers are participating in search-and-rescue operations. However, progress is slow and dangerous. The area is extremely rugged, weather conditions remain severe, and the risk of further avalanches persists. Helicopters, including an Mi-8 and a commercial helicopter, are on standby and are expected to join the mission as soon as conditions allow.
Why Bezengi Gorge Is So Risky
Mount Mizhirgi rises to roughly 5,047 metres in the Greater Caucasus range and is known for technically demanding climbing routes. The Bezengi Gorge is one of the most serious alpine environments in the region. Avalanches there are not uncommon in early autumn, when daytime thawing and nighttime refreezing create unstable snow layers on steep slopes.
Aleksandr Yakovenko, chair of the Russian Mountaineering Federation Commission, called the incident a “tragic accident” and noted that the victims included experienced climbers. “These were experienced people,” Yakovenko said, according to TASS. “An avalanche is an accident, and no one is immune.”
How the Rescue Effort Is Progressing
Rescue teams are operating in difficult terrain with poor visibility and continued avalanche danger. That means ground teams cannot safely cover the highest-risk parts of the slide path, and aerial support is also delayed by weather.
As of Monday morning, the six missing climbers are the main focus of the operation. Authorities have not released names or nationalities. Emergency crews are prioritizing survivor search while also managing the safety of the rescuers themselves.
Key Facts
- Location: Mount Mizhirgi, Bezengi Gorge, Kabardino-Balkaria, Russia.
- Date and time: September 6, around 5:00 p.m. local time.
- Climbers involved: 33 total.
- Confirmed dead: 11.
- Injured and hospitalized: 6.
- Still missing: 6.
- Rescuers deployed: About 56.
- Helicopter support: On standby; deployment depends on weather.
FAQs:
How many climbers were caught in the avalanche?
A total of 33 climbers were in the group hit by the avalanche on Mount Mizhirgi.
How many people have been confirmed dead?
Russian emergency authorities have confirmed 11 deaths as of Monday morning.
Are there still people missing?
Yes. Six climbers remain unaccounted for, and search-and-rescue operations are continuing.
Why is the rescue operation so difficult?
Rescuers are facing rugged mountain terrain, severe weather, and the continued risk of additional avalanches, which has delayed helicopter support and limited ground access.
Was this group experienced?
According to the Russian Mountaineering Federation, the climbers were experienced, and the site is considered a standard training area. The incident is being described as a tragic accident rather than a result of inexperience.
Why This Tragedy Stands Out
Mountaineering tragedies in the Caucasus have occurred before, but this event is among the deadliest recent avalanches in the North Caucasus. The incident also underscores the hazards of high-altitude alpine climbing even for experienced groups.
The broader context includes a series of mountain accidents in the region in recent months. In late July, five Bosnian climbers died on Mount Elbrus, also in Kabardino-Balkaria, after losing their way in worsening weather. Mount Elbrus is the highest peak in Europe and draws international climbing groups each summer.
Verified by Scandinavian News Agency Finland.
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