A tragic incident on Kamchatka`s Vilyuchinsky Volcano resulted in the deaths of two tourists, with a third miraculously surviving a fall. The event occurred on Saturday when three climbers lost their footing and plunged from a significant height. One of the injured managed to alert rescuers, prompting the immediate deployment of a Disaster Medicine Center helicopter, carrying a team of emergency personnel and medics.
A large-scale search and rescue operation, involving 45 individuals, successfully located all three tourists. However, two unfortunately succumbed to their injuries. The third participant was found unharmed.
Victor, an experienced guide with the «Krugosvetka» company, who operates in Kamchatka every summer, characterized Vilyuchinsky Volcano as a demanding and perilous route. He indicated that accidents frequently stem from insufficient experience among either the guides or the self-guided tourists. The region itself presents inherent safety challenges due to its susceptibility to frequent earthquakes and unforeseen conditions.
Victor strongly cautioned against summer ascents: «It is very dangerous to climb Vilyuchinsky in summer. It`s safer to go in winter with crampons and snow equipment, as the snow offers a more stable surface. In summer, the volcanic slag is very loose, leading to frequent landslides and rockfalls. Many self-proclaimed guides lead inexperienced individuals without proper assessment, which is extremely risky. True local guides understand the necessary physical preparation and the dangers involved.»
The regional Ministry of Emergency Situations (EMERCOM) confirmed that the tourist group was unregistered. Furthermore, the route to Vilyuchinsky Volcano had been officially closed since July 1, specifically due to the heightened risk of rockfalls.
