Search Underway for Missing Russian Helicopter in Kamchatka Peninsula

Rescue efforts intensified on Sunday as over 60 people battled harsh weather conditions to locate a missing Mi-8T helicopter with 22 people aboard in Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula. The helicopter went missing near Vachkazhets volcano amidst severe cyclonic weather. Officials report challenging terrain hampering the search operation.

Rescue efforts intensified on Sunday as more than 60 people confronted heavy winds and rains in search of a missing Russian helicopter carrying 22 individuals in the Kamchatka Peninsula. According to the emergencies ministry, the Mi-8T chopper disappeared after taking off from a base near the Vachkazhets volcano.

The search operation, hindered by a weekend cyclone, involved seven groups of emergency responders, rangers, and volunteers. The weather, though expected to improve slightly by Sunday evening, continues to pose significant challenges. 'The search has not yielded any results so far,' reported Sergei Lebedev, emergency minister for the Kamchatka region, as cited by Russia's RIA state news agency.

'The road is extremely difficult. It is possible to move by foot only,' added Lebedev, noting that the slopes of the mountain range are densely covered with dwarf pine and trees, making it impossible to utilize equipment.

(With inputs from agencies.)