About two dozen people went missing in the taiga of Khakassia, according to officials from the local Emergency Situations Agency. The report concerns a group of visitors who vanished while exploring the forested region near Priiskovoe. Several tourist teams had set out for a day hike when deteriorating weather abruptly changed conditions, forcing 28 individuals to shelter for the night amid thick snow and freezing winds.
Rescue coordinators said volunteers from nearby communities and holidaymakers organized an immediate search once visibility dropped and temperatures plunged. Night operations were hampered by severe cold, gusty winds, and a snowstorm, making it dangerous to launch a full-scale effort after dark. In response, authorities redirected resources and prepared for an early morning search with specialized teams ready to deploy at first light. A Mi-8 helicopter was placed on standby as a precautionary measure because of the challenging terrain and weather. These steps reflect the standard protocol for widespread winter incidents where rapid weather changes endanger outdoor enthusiasts.
As daylight returned, search teams succeeded in locating all group members and coordinating the evacuation of those who were found. The operation continued into the morning hours as responders worked to account for every person and ensure everyone was transported to safety. The successful recovery was attributed to the cooperation between rescuers, local residents, and visitors who remained on-site to assist with the effort, providing information about the groups’ routes and last known locations. The response demonstrated the importance of community involvement in wilderness emergencies and the value of rapid communication with authorities in remote areas.
In a separate and unconfirmed report, a seasoned fisherman previously seen near Yekaterinburg was reported as having traveled toward a nearby reservoir and subsequently disappeared. Authorities noted that this information required verification, and investigators were assessing possible connections to the broader string of events in the region. The update underscored the complexity of tracking individuals who venture into large natural preserves where weather, terrain, and daylight can change quickly, complicating search and rescue efforts. Officials urged anyone with information to contact regional emergency services, while emphasizing that safety remains the top priority for all outdoor pursuits in the taiga and similar environments. The case continues to be monitored by local authorities who are coordinating with national agencies to review the incident and determine if any lessons can be applied to future expeditions in harsh winter conditions. (citation: Khakassia Emergency Situations Agency and regional authorities)”}