Summer 2025: Elbrus & Kazbek on Alert

Danger is rising on the Caucasus giants this season. Here’s what climbers must know before they rope up.

Elbrus Weather Shifts

On Elbrus, clear mornings are ending in whiteout chaos. Teams are losing their way as storms roll in hours ahead of forecasts.

Snow bridges are melting earlier, exposing hidden crevasses. Rescue teams have already been called out multiple times this season.

Elbrus Glacier Hazards

High winds above the Saddle are slamming summit teams with 70+ km/h gusts. Early starts and quick decisions are now critical.

Elbrus Summit Push Risks

On Kazbek, melting permafrost is loosening massive rocks. Approaches that felt safe last year are now sending debris down without warning.

Kazbek Rockfall Danger

Unstable seracs are collapsing even before sunrise. Climbers are roping up for sections they once crossed unprotected.

Kazbek Glacier Threats

Warmer-than-normal temperatures and erratic storms are reshaping these peaks. Safe climbing windows are shorter than ever before.

Why 2025 Is Different