Stranded at 7,150 m: Natalia Nagovitsyna on Pobeda Peak

Russian mountaineer Natalia Nagovitsyna remains stranded at 7,150 meters on Pobeda Peak in Kyrgyzstan’s Tien Shan mountains. She has been isolated for over a week following a severe leg fracture sustained on August 12 while descending from the summit. Nagovitsyna is currently confined to a torn tent, enduring extreme cold and high-altitude conditions with minimal supplies and no radio communication. A drone flyover on August 19 confirmed her survival, prompting intensified rescue efforts.

Due to harsh weather and poor visibility, helicopter evacuations have been delayed. A four-person ground team reached Camp 2 on August 20 and plans to ascend to 5,800 meters on August 21, weather permitting. However, afternoon snow is expected, complicating the operation.

The rescue mission has already claimed one life: Italian climber Luca Sinigaglia died on August 16 during an early attempt to save Nagovitsyna. He and a German climber reached her position, providing critical supplies, but became trapped in a blizzard at 6,800 meters. Sinigaglia succumbed to high-altitude cerebral edema, compounded by hypothermia and frostbite. His body remains at approximately 6,900 meters, with recovery efforts stalled due to adverse weather conditions.

In addition to Nagovitsyna’s situation, two Iranian climbers, Maryam Pilehvari and Hassan Aghalou, have been reported missing on Pobeda Peak since attempting to summit around August 12. Their current status remains uncertain.

Pobeda Peak, also known as Jengish Chokusu, is the highest mountain in the Tien Shan range, standing at 7,439 meters. The mountain is notorious for its challenging conditions, including steep ascents, crevasses, and unpredictable weather. The current situation underscores the inherent dangers of high-altitude mountaineering and the critical importance of preparedness and caution.

As rescue teams continue their efforts, the mountaineering community remains hopeful for Nagovitsyna’s safe recovery.