Massive Avalanche Hits Russian Ski Resort

Avalanche mitigation efforts went awry at a Russian ski resort when a blast to loosen new snow slid into tourist facilities instead of into the trees as anticipated. The slide buried twelve people, six of whom have been rescued and an additional three are still being located. Four of the six rescued were injured in the slide and there was one fatality reported. Rescue efforts were carried out by more than 200 responders but have been hampered due to bad weather. 

The avalanche occurred in Russia's republic of Karachay-Cherkessia at the urban ski settlement Dombay, situated on Mt. Mussa-Achitara. The slide itself hit two separate ski rental facilities as well as a cafe. Although Dombay's population is under 1,000 it's a popular tourist destination for skiing and other outdoor activities.