11 Dead, Six Missing in Caucasus Avalanche

An avalanche struck 33 climbers on Mount Mizhirgi in Russia’s Kabardino-Balkaria region, killing 11 people and injuring six others. Ten climbers descended the mountain on their own, while six remained missing as rescuers searched the Bezengi Gorge. More than 50 emergency personnel were involved, but steep terrain, poor weather and the risk of additional avalanches hampered the operation; helicopters were expected to join the search when conditions improved. Russian investigators opened a criminal case alleging negligence and said they were examining the circumstances of the disaster.